Part I
From the icy terrains of Antarctica to the nerve centre of Malaysia’s tech transformation, Dr Pannirselvam Kanagaratnam brings a world of knowledge home. Today, as MIMOS’ Chief Technology Officer, he channels that global experience into building Malaysia’s technological muscle, quietly, expertly, and relentlessly.
“Great engineering doesn’t just solve problems. It anticipates the future,” he says.
A Brain Gain with Deep Roots
A NASA Fellow, internationally published scientist, and patent holder, Dr Pannirselvam returned under Malaysia’s Brain Gain programme in 2006. What he brought back was more than credentials; it was conviction.
“I came home because I believed Malaysia could lead: in radar systems, embedded AI, and climate technology. We just needed to build with intent,” he reflects.
His early work at MIMOS spanned from smart IoT systems to next-gen wireless devices, all designed to serve national needs and elevate local industries.
Turning Advocacy into Execution
Unlike typical advocacy arms, Ramesh’s team doesn’t stop at white papers. They build execution blueprints, tying policy to technology and ideas to real-world applications.
Precision Meets Purpose
With over RM60 million in R&D funding secured under RMK-11 and RMK-12, Dr Pannirselvam has transformed MIMOS’ tech labs into living innovation ecosystems, from gigabit mesh devices for off-grid areas to embedded AI in smart buildings.
“Every solution must have impact. Not just innovation for shelf display — but for people, industries, and planet,” he says firmly.
A Global Mindset, A Local Heart
His collaborations with NASA, IIT Madras, the Niels Bohr Institute, and others are legendary. But at MIMOS, his heart lies in mentoring young Malaysian engineers.
“We’re not just building systems. We’re building future CTOs,” he smiles.
A Final Reflection
Asked what continues to fuel his scientific fire, he replies simply:
“Because science is service. And because Malaysia’s future must be engineered with excellence.”
