Malaysia has officially launched its National AI Office (NAIO) to step up AI innovation and regulation.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the initiative at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), coinciding with the Digital Ministry’s first anniversary.
The office is designed to act as a centralised agency for AI, tasked with developing policies, overseeing regulatory frameworks, and driving strategic planning.
As reported by Reuters, NAIO’s first-year objectives include creating an AI code of ethics, establishing a regulatory framework, and drafting a five-year action plan through 2030.
At the launch, Anwar described the initiative as a pivotal moment in Malaysia’s digital transformation efforts.
He highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and leveraging AI to boost economic and social development.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo emphasised NAIO’s importance in positioning Malaysia as a regional AI leader, as reported by Twentytwo13.
He noted that AI could revolutionise sectors like healthcare—predicting diseases—and agriculture, optimising palm oil management to reduce waste. He also underscored the need to guide students in using smart technologies responsibly to inspire innovation.
The government also announced strategic partnerships with six global technology companies, including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft.
These firms have collectively invested billions in cloud and AI projects in Malaysia over the past year.
Located at the MoF Inc Tower in Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle, NAIO has been allocated RM10 million under Budget 2025.
The office will be led by Shamsul Izhan Abdul Majid, a seasoned expert with leadership experience at the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, PLUS Malaysia, and TERAS Teknologi.
His expertise is expected to drive Malaysia’s AI initiatives forward by fostering innovation and collaboration.
The launch of NAIO solidifies Malaysia’s ambition to integrate AI into government operations, industry practices, and societal frameworks.
This move aims to bolster the digital economy, enhance public services, and contribute to sustainable development goals.
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