Tag: Gobind Singh Deo

Songkran 2026 In Malaysia Emphasises Mindful Celebration, Stronger Thai-Malaysian Relations

PETALING JAYA -- Malaysia’s Premier Songkran Festival 2026 offers a platform to strengthen long-standing people-to-people and cultural ties between Malaysia and Thailand as both countries mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027. Thailand’s Ambassador to Malaysia Lada Phumas said the 11-day festival, held from April 9 to 19, also serves as a vibrant showcase of Thailand’s tourism and creative economy, reflecting its broader push to position itself as a key strategic player on the global stage. “While we are bringing the spirit of Songkran and authentic Thai offerings to Malaysia, I would also like to invite our Malaysian and international friends to experience Songkran traditions in Thailand. “Let us use this festival to strengthen the people-to-people and cultural ties that have bound us for decades, as we join hands on our journey towards the 70th anniversary of Thailand-Malaysia diplomatic relations next year,” she said at the official launch of the festival on Friday. Also present were Digital Minister and Damansara Member of Parliament Gobind Singh Deo, ambassadors and high commissioners accredited to Malaysia, as well as members of the ASEAN Ladies’ Circle. Songkran, Thailand’s traditional New Year festival, is celebrated annually from April 13 to 15, marking the start of the Thai New Year. “Songkran in Thailand” was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2023. Lada said this year’s festival emphasises experiencing Songkran in a more meaningful and sustainable way. “We aim to balance our legendary ‘sanuk’, the Thai word for fun, with sustainability and responsibility. From water-splashing festivities to traditions such as pouring water on elders and traditional Songkran dances, a vibrant showcase of Thai music and performances awaits visitors. “As Songkran symbolises renewal and family unity, we hope the celebration, especially amid current global challenges, will embrace mindful practices, from the responsible use of water to energy conservation, ensuring that our traditions are preserved for future generations,” she said. She said the Royal Thai Embassy has been actively enhancing bilateral cooperation through cultural programmes, economic forums and strategic dialogues, while advancing initiatives to support trade, tourism and people-to-people connectivity. Malaysia’s Premier Songkran Festival 2026 at 1 Utama Shopping Centre is one of the key cultural events that has drawn tens of thousands of visitors annually since its inception, now entering its fourth consecutive year. This year, organisers are projecting a turnout of more than 80,000 visitors, reinforcing its position as a major regional attraction. The festival also offers a Thai street market featuring 50 curated booths, including more than 40 authentic Thai food vendors, alongside desserts, beverages, fashion and lifestyle products, as well as carnival attractions. Festival-goers can indulge in popular Thai favourites such as Pad Thai, tomyam, som tam, mango sticky rice and Thai iced tea, offering an immersive street food experience reminiscent of Bangkok’s vibrant

PETALING JAYA — Malaysia’s Premier Songkran Festival 2026 offers a platform to strengthen long-standing people-to-people and cultural ties between Malaysia and Thailand as both countries mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027. Thailand’s Ambassador to Malaysia Lada Phumas said the 11-day festival, held from April 9 to 19, also serves as a vibrant […]

YB Gobind Singh Deo Launches Oracle SDI to Train 300,000 Malaysians in AI Skills

Kuala Lumpur, April 3, 2026 — Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today announced the launch of the Oracle Skills Development Initiative (SDI), a major effort to equip 300,000 Malaysians with artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology skills at no cost. The initiative, unveiled at Oracle AI Experience Live 2026, is a collaboration between Oracle Corporation and MyDIGITAL Corporation. It targets both students and working professionals, offering globally recognised certifications to boost employability and long-term career development. According to Gobind Singh Deo, the programme is designed to support Malaysia’s workforce transformation as the country accelerates its digital economy ambitions. “This initiative reflects our commitment to developing future-ready talent. By providing access to high-quality training and certification, we are ensuring Malaysians are well-prepared to compete in an increasingly digital and AI-driven global economy,” he said. Under the programme, participants will receive more than 200 hours of structured learning and certification pathways over a three-years period, with a targeted impact timeline leading up to 2029. The training will cover a wide range of in-demand technologies, including Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), OCI Generative AI, OCI Data Science, Oracle APEX, OCI DevOps, and OCI Security. Participants can access the programme free of charge through Oracle MyLearn, a comprehensive learning platform developed by Oracle University. Gobind emphasised that talent development and empowerment remain central to Malaysia’s aspiration of becoming an AI-driven nation by 2030. “Investing in people is key to achieving our national vision. Initiatives like SDI will play a vital role in building a skilled, resilient, and competitive workforce for the future,” he added. --Minutes MY / Igneseous Noris

Kuala Lumpur, April 3, 2026 — Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo today announced the launch of the Oracle Skills Development Initiative (SDI), a major effort to equip 300,000 Malaysians with artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology skills at no cost. The initiative, unveiled at Oracle AI Experience Live 2026, is a collaboration between Oracle Corporation […]

Tencent Strengthens Malaysia Presence, Boosts Digital Economy with Regional Hub Expansion

KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 — Tencent continues to deepen its footprint in Malaysia, reinforcing its role as a key contributor to the nation’s digital economy since entering the market in 2013. The technology giant has made significant strides across multiple sectors, including games and entertainment, digital payments, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud services, positioning itself as a major player in Malaysia’s growing digital ecosystem. Tencent Malaysia recently achieved Malaysia Digital (MD) status, a milestone seen as a strong vote of confidence in the country’s digital economy and investment climate. The recognition is expected to further accelerate the company’s expansion, including the establishment of a regional hub in Malaysia. The move is set to drive innovation, strengthen the local technology ecosystem, and create high-value opportunities that enhance Malaysia’s standing as a leading digital nation. Industry observers note that the regional hub will play a pivotal role in advancing technological capabilities and attracting further global investments. The initiative is also expected to deliver direct benefits to businesses and the public through improved AI, cloud infrastructure, digital payments, and real-time communication solutions. These advancements will enable smarter services, ranging from digital banking to cross-border transactions, while empowering local enterprises and enhancing customer experiences. With continued growth in its digital ecosystem, Malaysia is well-positioned to emerge as a key regional hub for innovation and digital services, supported by strategic investments from global technology leaders like Tencent.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 — Tencent continues to deepen its footprint in Malaysia, reinforcing its role as a key contributor to the nation’s digital economy since entering the market in 2013. The technology giant has made significant strides across multiple sectors, including games and entertainment, digital payments, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud services, positioning itself […]

Boost Bank Drives Fintech Growth as Malaysia Accelerates Digital Economy Agenda

KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 — Malaysia’s fintech sector continues to gain momentum as a key driver of the nation’s digital economy, with industry leaders highlighting ongoing efforts to accelerate innovation and financial inclusion. During a recent engagement, Sheyantha Abeykoon, Group Chief Executive Officer of Boost Holdings, and Ungku Liza, Deputy CEO of Boost Bank, presented the latest developments and strategic initiatives undertaken by the digital bank in advancing the fintech landscape. The session underscored the growing importance of fintech in propelling Malaysia’s digital economy to greater heights, particularly in enhancing accessibility, efficiency, and innovation within the financial ecosystem. Efforts by Boost Bank were positively received, with recognition given to its role in delivering tangible impact across the sector. Its initiatives are seen as contributing significantly to expanding digital financial services and supporting broader economic growth. The engagement reflects continued collaboration between stakeholders to ensure Malaysia remains competitive in the rapidly evolving global fintech space, while fostering a more inclusive and resilient digital economy.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 — Malaysia’s fintech sector continues to gain momentum as a key driver of the nation’s digital economy, with industry leaders highlighting ongoing efforts to accelerate innovation and financial inclusion. During a recent engagement, Sheyantha Abeykoon, Group Chief Executive Officer of Boost Holdings, and Ungku Liza, Deputy CEO of Boost Bank, presented […]

MDEC Secures RM87.4 Billion in Digital Investments, Boosting Malaysia’s AI-Driven Growth

KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 — The Ministry of Digital reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Malaysia into a high-income, AI-driven nation that is peaceful, progressive, and inclusive for all. The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has successfully secured RM87.4 billion in digital investments in 2025, signaling strong progress in advancing the national digital strategy and driving high-value, AI-powered economic growth. The investment is projected to create over 31,000 high-value jobs, providing Malaysians with enhanced employment opportunities, improved digital skills, and greater economic resilience. The Ministry of Digital urged all stakeholders to continue playing their respective roles in accelerating Malaysia’s digitalisation agenda, emphasizing that the nation’s transition towards an AI-driven economy is key to long-term prosperity and competitiveness.

KUALA LUMPUR, March 30 — The Ministry of Digital reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Malaysia into a high-income, AI-driven nation that is peaceful, progressive, and inclusive for all. The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has successfully secured RM87.4 billion in digital investments in 2025, signaling strong progress in advancing the national digital strategy and driving […]

Tiara Jacquelina Meets Ministry To Discuss Digital Creative Initiatives

KUALA LUMPUR, March 13 — Tiara Jacquelina, founder of The Enfiniti Academy of Musical Theatre and Performing Arts, recently held a meeting to discuss creative and digital initiatives that align with the government’s agenda to accelerate national digitalisation. The discussion highlighted several projects by Enfiniti that support efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s creative and digital content […]

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Calls for Stronger Integrity Culture to Combat Public Fund Leakages

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for stronger integrity practices and governance reforms to address the issue of public fund leakages and abuse of power. Chairing the meeting of the National Governance Special Cabinet Committee, Anwar highlighted that corruption and misuse of authority not only undermine national governance but also negatively impact public […]

Gobind Urges Swift Action Against Desecration of Religious Symbols

PUTRAJAYA, 12 March 2026: Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo has called on enforcement authorities to act swiftly in identifying and prosecuting individuals responsible for the desecration of religious symbols, warning that failure to do so could heighten racial tensions in the country. Gobind, who is also national chairman of the Democratic Action Party and Member […]