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@ green | April-May, 2025
Building an AI nation
Malaysia aims to evolve from being an AI consumer to an AI producer through NAIO NAIO Lab to develop citizen-centric AI solutions in key sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and transportation AI for Policymakers and the Data Sharing Act 2025 lay the groundwork for AI-driven governance
� A NEW AGE: Anwar Ibrahim at the official launch of NAIO
BY ZAFIRAH ZAFRUDDIN
IN the digital era, Malaysia is seeking a transformation from an artificial intelligence( AI) consumer to an AI producer. This transformation is spearheaded by the establishment of the National AI Office( NAIO), a dedicated office within the Ministry of Digital.
NAIO marked its first 100 days in Mar 2025, following its launch on Dec 12, 2024. The office has structured its work around four key pillars to guide its efforts and initiatives: AI for the People, AI for a Stronger Economy, AI for Trust & Governance, and AI Talent for National Progress.
To guide its first year of operations, NAIO has outlined seven key deliverables:
1. AI Technology Action Plan 2026-2030: Strategic roadmap to enhance Malaysia’ s competitiveness in the AI sector and build confidence among foreign investors.
1. AI Adoption Regulatory Framework: Framework promoting ethical and sustainable AI adoption across sectors.
1. Acceleration of AI Technology Adaptation: Accelerating sector-wide AI implementation in Malaysia.
1. AI Code of Ethics: Guide for responsible and ethical use of AI.
1. AI Impact Study for Government: Evaluate AI’ s potential to improve government services, operations, and decision-making.
1. National AI Trend Report: Market overview of the maturity and trends of AI in selected sectors within Malaysia.
1. Datasets related to AI technology: Data to support the implementation of tailored AI initiatives for specific target groups.
NAIO aims to complete these deliverables within its 12-month incubation period. Throughout this period, the office will operate under the guidance of MyDIGITAL Corporation and focus on AI research, adoption, and commercialisation.
Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim envisioned NAIO as a central mechanism to streamline and strengthen the national AI ecosystem. A critical part of that ecosystem, according to Anwar, is the development of AI software by local talent.
CITIZEN-FOCUSED INITIATIVES
To boost economic growth by positioning Malaysia as a global AI leader, the Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo emphasised the equal importance of ensuring AI contributes to societal well-being and sustainability.
“ It is imperative that we bring AI to all sectors, reaching every segment of society, from the young to the elderly, in every corner of the nation. This is to ensure no one is left behind and that everyone benefits from this technological shift,” he urged.
This vision of inclusive AI is expected to materialise through targeted technological solutions. On Feb 6, 2025, NAIO launched the NAIO Lab, a collaborative initiative with the Global AI Village( GAIV).
“ NAIO Lab will focus on citizen-centric AI applications in areas like agriculture, healthcare and transportation,” asserted Gobind.
“ These are sectors that touch the