KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 — Malaysia must develop its own local technological capabilities to reduce dependence on foreign platforms and systems, particularly amid the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI).
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said digital sovereignty today is no longer defined solely by national borders, but also by control over data, infrastructure, platforms and technological systems used by society.
According to him, Malaysia must shift from being merely a digital investment destination to becoming a nation capable of building its own technological strengths.
“Providing hosting infrastructure is not the same as owning it. If the capital, platforms and intelligence are controlled externally, then the strategic advantage lies elsewhere,” he said.
He said this while discussing the country’s digital development direction amid the increasingly challenging global technology landscape.
Gobind stressed that the rapid advancement of AI makes strengthening local talent even more critical to ensure the country is prepared for future technological changes.
He said the government cannot completely reject foreign technologies, but at the same time must develop local expertise so Malaysia can create its own technological systems and solutions.
“That is why we must focus on ensuring we have sufficient talent within our country so that when new technologies arrive, our society is fully prepared to adopt and utilise them,” he added.
At the same time, he emphasised that the security of citizens’ data remains a key government priority through the implementation of laws and monitoring by relevant agencies, including CyberSecurity Malaysia.
“Data is extremely important to us. Security is our priority,” he said.
Gobind also stressed that stronger collaboration between the government, industry and academic institutions is essential to ensure Malaysia can build a sustainable and competitive digital ecosystem at both regional and global levels.
— MINUTESMY
— SOURCES: FB GOBIND SINGH DEO
