by AKMAR ANNUAR

GOOGLE LLC unveiled the “AI (artificial intelligence) at Work” initiative, a collaboration between the Digital Ministry and Google Cloud to integrate Gemini for Google Workspace into the workflows of Malaysia’s public officers.

This initiative will begin with a pilot programme at the Digital Ministry, leveraging AI tools to assist with tasks such as report writing and meeting summarisation.

By streamlining repetitive tasks, public officers will have more time to focus on strategic priorities.

Gemini for Google Workspace, built with enterprise-grade protections, incorporates Google’s multimodal AI models into widely used apps such as Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Meet and Chat. It also includes NotebookLM, a personalised AI research assistant.

NotebookLM enables public officers to interact with trusted content sources, including legislative and policy documents, to generate insights, summaries and briefing materials while maintaining data security.

NotebookLM was named one of Time magazine’s “Best Inventions of 2024” for its ability to offer grounded insights with inline citations, empowering quicker decision-making and improving responsiveness to citizen needs.

Google Cloud Malaysia and Singapore country director Serene Sia said the initiative aligns with the National AI Office’s (NAIO) goal of promoting AI innovation through collaboration.

“The AI at Work initiative will empower public officers with secure and best-in-class AI tools to drive efficiency, innovation and citizen-centric service delivery. This collaboration exemplifies Malaysia’s commitment to leveraging enterprise-grade AI for national development,” she stated in a statement.

Another initiative, a collaboration between NAIO and Google, is the establishment of an “AI Policy and Skilling Lab” in Malaysia.

The Lab aims to equip Malaysian policymakers with frameworks and best practices for adopting AI responsibly.

It will serve as a think tank for policymakers, industry experts, and stakeholders to exchange ideas, discuss emerging challenges and develop policies for secure AI implementation.

Google Cloud Government Affairs and Public Policy for the South-East Asia Cluster head Su Ann Lim said the Lab aligns with Malaysia’s goals for operationalising responsible AI.

“By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, this initiative will establish clear guidelines for AI adoption, ensuring its benefits are realised while mitigating risks.

“This will elevate Malaysia’s standing as a regional leader in AI development and adoption, attracting investments and creating new economic opportunities,” Lim said.

The initiatives come ahead of Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, marking a significant step in the nation’s digital transformation journey.

They expand on Google’s commitment to Malaysia, which includes a US$2 billion (RM8.34 billion) investment in a Google data centre and Google Cloud region under construction from October 2024 in Elmina Business Park, Selangor.