PUTRAJAYA, Nov 13 – Malaysia has improved its position in the 2026 IMD World Digital and AI Ranking, climbing seven places to 27th from 34th previously.
The improvement reflects the country’s progress in digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) development.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the achievement resulted from combined efforts by the government, businesses, universities and the public.
He said Malaysia must now turn this progress into real economic benefits for its people and businesses.
The government also aims to establish Malaysia as an inclusive and sustainable AI Nation by 2030. Two key frameworks will guide this ambition: the Malaysia Digital Action Plan 2030 and the National AI Action Plan 2026–2030.
Four Priorities to Strengthen Malaysia’s AI Growth
Malaysia has expanded its digital ecosystem through investments in data centres, AI computing infrastructure and digital adoption programmes.
The establishment of AI Malaysia also provides a dedicated national institution to coordinate the country’s AI development.
However, Gobind said infrastructure investments must create wider opportunities for local industries. The Ministry of Digital has identified four priorities to maintain the country’s progress.
1. Turn AI Investments into Business Opportunities
The government wants local companies to benefit from investments in data centres and AI computing facilities.
It plans to improve access to AI technologies for Malaysian businesses, researchers and developers.
The initiative will also encourage the development of locally created products and services that can compete internationally.
2. Expand AI Adoption Across Businesses and Government
Malaysia plans to speed up digital and AI adoption across the economy.
Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will receive particular attention. AI tools can help these businesses improve productivity, reduce operating costs and identify new growth opportunities.
The government also plans to accelerate digital transformation across public services. This will help make government services more efficient, accessible and responsive.
3. Develop More Local AI Professionals
Malaysia needs skilled workers to support its growing AI industry.
Therefore, the government will focus on developing more AI engineers, researchers, developers and entrepreneurs.
It will also strengthen training programmes to help existing workers upgrade their skills or learn new ones.
These efforts aim to prepare Malaysians for changing job requirements and emerging opportunities in the digital economy.
4. Strengthen AI Governance and Safety
The government is also working to establish clearer rules for AI development and use.
The Ministry of Digital is advancing an AI Governance Bill to improve accountability and provide greater regulatory clarity.
In addition, the government plans to establish the Malaysia AI Safety Institute under AI Malaysia.
The proposed institute will focus on AI safety testing, risk assessments, research and standards development.
Further efforts will address data governance, cybersecurity and regulatory coordination. These measures aim to encourage innovation while protecting Malaysians and maintaining investor confidence.
Malaysia Targets AI Nation Status by 2030
Gobind described Malaysia’s improved ranking as an important milestone. However, he stressed that the country must continue investing and working together to sustain its progress.
He said Malaysia’s ambition goes beyond adopting new technologies.
The longer-term goal is to build local expertise, encourage innovation and develop Malaysian businesses that can compete in the global digital economy.
By 2030, the government hopes to establish an inclusive and sustainable AI ecosystem that creates opportunities for businesses, workers and the wider community.
Source : PressKL | Rewritten By Minutesmy
