Malaysia Climbs to 27th in Global Digital and AI Rankings
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia has climbed seven places to 27th from 34th in the Institute for Management Development (IMD) World Digital and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Rankings 2026.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the achievement reflected the country’s progress in digital transformation and AI technology development, as well as the results of cooperation between the government, industry, academia and the public.
“This improvement in ranking also demonstrates Malaysia’s ability to compete in the global digital and AI economy, in line with the country’s aspiration to become an inclusive and sustainable AI Nation by 2030.
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“The achievement also strengthens confidence in the country’s strategic direction through the Malaysia Digital Action Plan 2030 and the National AI Action Plan 2026–2030.
“Our priority is to ensure that Malaysia’s growing capabilities translate into broader economic opportunities, more competitive local enterprises and tangible benefits for all Malaysians,” he said in a statement.
Accordingly, he said the Digital Ministry would focus on four priorities to strengthen the country’s position in the digital and AI economy.
He said these included maximising the economic value of investments in digital and AI infrastructure by developing local industries, technologies and businesses based on those investments.
“The initiative also aims to expand access to AI technology for local companies, researchers and developers to accelerate innovation and produce Malaysian-made products and services capable of competing in global markets.
“In addition, the government will accelerate the adoption of digital and AI technologies across economic sectors, particularly among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
“This is aimed at increasing productivity, reducing operating costs and creating new growth opportunities,” he said.
Gobind said the digital transformation of the public sector would also be intensified to ensure that government services were more efficient, accessible and responsive.
“The next priority is to strengthen the development of national talent and innovation capabilities by producing more AI engineers, researchers, developers and entrepreneurs.
“At the same time, upskilling and reskilling initiatives will be expanded to ensure Malaysians possess the digital capabilities needed to adapt to changes in the job market and seize opportunities in the AI economy,” he said.
He said the government was also focusing on strengthening digital trust, governance and regulatory coordination to create an environment that supports innovation and boosts investor confidence.
“The Digital Ministry is advancing the drafting of an AI Governance Bill to provide clarity and accountability in the development and use of the technology.
“In addition, the government is working towards establishing the Malaysia AI Safety Institute under AI Malaysia to strengthen the country’s capabilities in AI safety assessment, risk evaluation, research and standards development.
“The latest IMD ranking is an important achievement in the country’s digital journey. However, continuous efforts and cooperation are essential to maintain the existing momentum.
“We will build on this achievement to realise our aspiration of becoming an inclusive and sustainable AI Nation by 2030,” he said.
UTUSAN MALAYSIA