Malaysia Strengthens AI Readiness with Strategic Domestic and International Initiatives

KUALA LUMPUR, 21 July: In a recent parliamentary session, the Digital Minister responded to a question raised by MP Sivakumar Varatharaju Naidu (Batu Gajah), outlining Malaysia’s readiness to face the global wave of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on governance, workforce development, and national sovereignty.

National Framework and Preparedness

Malaysia has adopted a structured and strategic approach to embracing AI, backed by comprehensive technology transfer policies, talent development programs, public awareness efforts, and robust governance frameworks.

A key milestone in this effort is the establishment of the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO), which plays a central role in implementing policies, governance, ethical compliance, and safeguarding digital sovereignty related to AI.

The government’s AI Roadmap 2021–2025 (AI-RMAP) has been a guiding document for Malaysia’s AI journey, focusing on technology transfer, talent development, research and development (R&D) partnerships, sandbox testing environments, and the creation of AI safety standards.

NAIO is currently developing the National AI Action Plan 2026–2030, aimed at positioning Malaysia as a regional AI hub. The plan seeks to improve the country’s standing in global AI rankings—Malaysia currently ranks 26th out of 36 in the Stanford HAI AI Index (2023) and 24th out of 193 countries in the Oxford Insights Government AI Readiness Index (2024).

Workforce Development and Local Talent Empowerment

In preparing the national workforce for AI adoption, the government has introduced several large-scale initiatives:

• “AI for MY Future,” a partnership with Microsoft, targets nearly 800,000 Malaysians through interactive modules and guided learning.

• MDEC’s “MyDigital Maker” and “Cikgu Juara Digital” programs equip students and educators with skills in robotics, data analytics, and digital literacy.

• The “AI@Work” initiative, in collaboration with Google, trains 445,000 civil servants in applying AI tools like Gemini and NotebookLLM to improve public service efficiency.

Legal Framework and Governance

Malaysia is also studying the development of a dedicated AI Act to balance governance needs with national aspirations to become a regional AI leader.

Strategic Global Collaborations

Responding to a supplementary question, the minister highlighted key strategic partnerships and international engagements:

1. ASEAN AI Safety Network—Malaysia leads this newly established network, officially endorsed during the 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting (ADGMIN). The network, headquartered in Malaysia, aims to harmonize AI governance and safety standards across Southeast Asia.

2. ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA)—Malaysia is a key participant in this initiative to build a more integrated, competitive, and secure ASEAN digital economy, covering AI, cross-border digital trade, cybersecurity, data protection, and digital payments.

3. Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group (HAIPFG) — With Cabinet approval in April 2025, Malaysia joined this global AI initiative that supports responsible AI development. Malaysia took part in the group’s first in-person meeting in Tokyo earlier this year.

4. Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (C4IR)—Malaysia’s participation enables involvement in international policy discussions and best practices on AI and Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) governance.

5. UNESCO Ethics of AI (RAM)—The NAIO leads Malaysia’s efforts in aligning AI development with global ethical standards. This includes conducting national self-assessments to address policy gaps, focusing on human rights, inclusivity, sustainability, and transparent governance.

6. ASEAN AI Malaysia Summit 2025— Scheduled for 12–13 August, this international summit in Malaysia will convene global industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers to explore opportunities, challenges, and ethics surrounding safe and inclusive AI.

Conclusion

Malaysia’s strategic domestic initiatives and international partnerships underline its commitment to shaping a future-ready, inclusive AI ecosystem. The integration of AI into governance and the economy is expected to bring long-term benefits to the people, while enhancing national competitiveness on the global stage.