by AUFA MARDHIAH
MALAYSIA is taking significant steps to position itself as a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) in the region, with plans to establish a National AI Office by November.
The announcement by Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today followed a Cabinet decision two weeks ago, where the proposal to set up the office was approved.
“We are currently finalising our AI code and expect to announce it soon,” he said to the media.
He added that the establishment of the National AI Office will provide a foundation for Malaysia to become a leading AI hub in the region.
One of the key focuses of the National AI Office will be to develop an ecosystem aimed at attracting global investment in data centres and related sectors, helping Malaysia emerge as a hub for AI in South-East Asia.
The initiative aims to place Malaysia at the forefront of AI development, ensuring the country remains competitive in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
Gobind believes that new technologies such as AI are essential for the country’s future, and through the National AI Office, Malaysia plans to take proactive steps to ensure it leads in this critical sector.
He further noted that the office will be placed under his ministry and managed through MyDigital Corp, further strengthening Malaysia’s efforts in the digital transformation space.
Earlier, the Khazanah Research Institute (KRI) has suggested that the government create a central national AI agency to coordinate and implement Malaysia’s AI strategy.
The research institute also recommended setting clear national goals for AI regulation to ensure consistent policies across sectors.
KRI highlighted that this central agency could connect experts from different fields and share information with the public about AI’s impact.
These recommendations came from the AI Impact and Governance Roundtable held on Aug 27.
KRI emphasised that while Malaysia can learn from international AI guidelines, the country should tailor regulations to its own needs and ensure they are adaptable as AI adoption grows.