Accessibility of research done locally to clinicians remains limited unless it is in the published form. The publication rate of research presentations at the Annual Malaysian Paediatric Association, Perinatal Society of Malaysia and Academy of Medicine Malaysia in 1997 and 1998 was determined. One hundred and five (95.5%) of 110 research presentations were carried out in Malaysia. Thirty-seven (35.2%) presentations were published. University-affiliated institutions were more likely to publish their research presentations as compared to Ministry of Health hospitals (OR 3.1 95% CI 1.4-6.8, p < 0.01). There is a need to encourage publication of local research presentations. University-affiliated institutions performed better due to institution pressure for career advancement.