The emergence of fuel cell technology and challenges for catching-up by latecomers: Insights from Malaysia and Singapore

Abstract

In this paper, I have used the systems of innovation approach to investigate the challenges faced by latecomer countries to catch-up in the development of an emerging technology like fuel cells. A comparative study between Malaysia and Singapore reveals that higher development of the fuel cell innovation system can be attributed to three institutional factors: presence of primary actors to align activities; synergy between complementary policies; openness to internationalisation activities. It is argued that such factors are essential for providing a conducive environment to address specific characteristics of the 'emerging phase' of fuel cell technology.