PUTRAJAYA: Local councils have been told to revamp systems with artificial intelligence (AI) to cut red tape and make it easier to do business as the government rolls out the “AI at Work 2.0” initiative.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming (pic) said local authorities (PBTs) must undergo a digital transformation to ensure Malaysia remains globally competitive for the next two decades.
"I propose that we review and improve our existing systems by focusing on digital transformation.
"In line with the ease of doing business agenda and our business direction for the next 20 years, this is critical for the civil service, especially PBTs, so that we remain competitive," he said at the ministry’s Excellence Appreciation Ceremony 2025 at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre on Thursday (May 21).
Nga said the government’s "AI at Work 2.0" initiative sought to equip civil servants with generative AI tools like Google Gemini, allowing them to speed up document summaries, data analysis and reports.
"This not only reduces manual workloads but also allows civil servants to focus on strategic tasks and resolve the people's issues more effectively," he added.
Nga also called for a mindset shift among civil servants, urging them to become "global thinkers" rather than relying on routine administrative approaches.
He said the success of a nation is no longer determined solely by its resources, but by a workforce capable of anticipating global shifts in trade, technology, and geopolitics.
"We can no longer work within a narrow scope or get too comfortable with routine approaches. We must understand local issues while remaining highly attuned to global developments so that every policy and decision boosts the nation's competitiveness," he said.
Nga noted that Malaysia is currently well-positioned to capture foreign investment, citing the strengthening Ringgit and recent recognition by JP Morgan naming Malaysia as one of the most resilient economies in Asia.
At the event, Nga presented the Excellent Service Award to 441 ministry personnel.
He also noted that the ministry successfully executed over 15,000 infrastructure upgrading projects in 2025, which included improvements to public toilets, parks, and roads, alongside enhancements to solid waste management.
