Malaysia Targets to Become an AI Country by 2030

JAKARTA - Malaysia is trying to establish itself as a country based on artificial intelligence (AI) technology by pioneering the development of AI cities starting this year.

Malaysian Prime Minister (PM) Anwar Ibrahim stated that Malaysia is currently at an important point to move from the development of smart cities to a more strategic approach through the development of AI cities, as a foundation for Malaysia to become an AI Country.

"This transition is not merely the implementation of new technology, but requires a thorough transformation in the way we plan, manage, and regulate cities to be more efficient, resilient, and data-based," said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in a statement in Kuala Lumpur, Friday, April 10.

PM Anwar said that these efforts require a strong ecosystem, including AI and data governance that is safe, high-capacity digital infrastructure, the development of local talent, and a policy and regulatory framework that supports innovation responsibly.

He said the Malaysian Digital Ministry would act as the main coordinator with close cooperation with relevant ministries and agencies, while the government would continue to strengthen this synergy to ensure effective and high-impact implementation, for the overall benefit of the community and strengthen Malaysia's position as a competitive AI country at the global level.

The Malaysian Ministry of Digital previously stated in its statement that in an effort to comprehensively transform digital governance, it had activated the Government Innovation Initiative (GII), a national strategic effort designed to encourage innovation across the public sector, thus encouraging Malaysia's commitment to achieve the status of an AI State by 2030.

The GII is designed to go beyond conceptual innovation towards measurable implementation. This initiative translates real-world problem statements from governments and the public into actionable solutions, prioritizing "Made in Malaysia" technology, strengthening the domestic AI ecosystem, and enabling Malaysian digital and AI product manufacturers to grow nationally and globally.