The government intends to establish a national AI office to coordinate initiatives, which will include the introduction of the regulatory framework over the next 12 months.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced plans to establish a national cloud computing policy and introduce regulations to encourage the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI).
As quoted by Reutersthe announcement was made in the Prime Minister’s speech to the groundbreaking ceremony Google’s new data center and cloud region October 1, 2024 (Tuesday).
As cited in more detail in ReutersMalaysia’s national cloud computing policy will focus on four main areas, namely:
- innovation and efficiency of public service,
- economic competitiveness and growth,
- strengthen user trust and data security, and
- empowering citizens through digital inclusion.
In addition, the government also intends to establish a national AI office to coordinate initiatives, which will include the completion of a five-year technology action plan and regulatory framework aimed at increasing adoption of ethical and sustainable AI over the next 12 months.
The Prime Minister said: “We aim to position Malaysia as a hub for generative artificial intelligence, and investments from technology partners will be key to building a robust and secure digital infrastructure.
In May 2024, Google announced a series of upcoming investments which are expected to create 26,500 jobs in Malaysia and contribute about RM9.4 billion to its economy by 2030.
On a broader regional scale, Google announced it would invest $1 billion in Thailand to build a data center and cloud region there, to meet growing demand for cloud and support cloud adoption. AI in Southeast Asia, according to the report.
Main image / Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Aziz
