Abstract

The transfer of dual-use technologies, which can be used for both civilian and military applications, has become a critical issue for national and international security. In response, the Strategic Trade Act 2010 (STA 2010) was enacted in Malaysia to regulate the export, transit, and transshipment of strategic items, including dual-use goods and technologies. However, despite its importance, researchers in Malaysia’s Higher Learning Institutions exhibit lack of awareness and understanding of the Act, potentially placing national security at risk through unintended breaches of export control regulations. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of the STA 2010 among researchers in Malaysia, focusing specifically on their understanding of tangible and intangible technology transfers (ITT) and the associated risks of dual-use items. Questionnaires were distributed to a purposive sample of researchers, and the data were analyzed using the Rasch Measurement Model to assess levels of knowledge. The results indicate a significant knowledge gap among the research community, with most respondents demonstrating insufficient awareness of STA 2010 provisions, despite the Act being in place for over a decade. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted educational programs and outreach initiatives to improve compliance and mitigate potential risks. Policymakers and key stakeholders must strengthen efforts to raise awareness and ensure researchers are adequately informed about the legal frameworks governing dual-use technology transfers, thus safeguarding both national and international security.