KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia does not intend to remain merely a consumer of artificial intelligence (AI), but will instead work with partners to build capabilities and compete confidently in the global digital economy.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia has made significant progress in its digital transformation, a key pillar of national development.
He said the government is prioritising AI as part of its broader digital transformation agenda, while ensuring the technology benefits society as a whole.
“Following our Madani core values, our emphasis is on the people, as we aim to foster economic advancement and prosperity with equity and social justice.
“Pursuing digital transformation driven merely by the quest for material progress will be counterproductive if it leads to greater social inequities.
“Hence, our efforts must be people-centric and must help narrow the digital gap between urban and rural communities, and between the wealthy and the poor.
“Shared prosperity cannot remain a slogan, but must be realised through clear policies and effective action,” he said.
Anwar said this in his keynote address at the launch of the Huawei AI Lab and Innovation Centre on Monday (April 27).
He said Malaysia must keep pace with new technologies with agility, speed and efficiency; otherwise, it will be left behind.
The Prime Minister added that the country must ensure such changes do not widen the gap between the wealthy in urban areas and the poor in rural and remote communities.
“We must also ensure that new technologies, including AI, do not erode our identity, values and moral principles,” he said.
He stressed that while AI presents significant opportunities, it also requires strong governance as it reshapes industries, jobs and decision-making.
As such, Malaysia is strengthening its policy framework, including the establishment of the National AI Office to drive coordination across government, industry and society, he said.
He added that the country would remain open to international partnerships, but would retain control over key decisions involving technology and data.
“While the technology may come from anywhere, the rules will be made in Malaysia,” he said.
