PRESS RELEASE
MALAYSIA BUILDS ROBUST AI ECOSYSTEM THROUGH TALENT DEVELOPMENT AND DATA CENTRE GROWTH
DUBAI, April 24, 2025 – Malaysia is accelerating efforts to become a regional leader in artificial intelligence (AI) by strengthening its digital talent pipeline and expanding high-value infrastructure, including a growing network of data centres.
At the Machines Can See event at the Museum of the Future yesterday, Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo, highlighted the country’s proactive strategies in building a future-ready AI ecosystem. A key component is the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO), which coordinates cross-ministerial efforts to identify and address talent needs.
“NAIO allows us to engage with multiple sectors to understand what’s needed to cultivate and retain top digital talent. We are committed to creating real opportunities in the tech space and enabling Malaysians to take the lead in AI innovation,” said Gobind.
He emphasised that the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) is working to fast-track digital initiatives and streamline processes to attract global talent, in line with the goals of the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint 2025–2030.
“We have a clear, long-term vision. Making it easier to develop digital skills and access opportunities is a key part of our blueprint for growth.”
Gobind also called for a shift in the way digital education is approached.
“It’s not just about universities. We need to embed relevant tech modules at every stage of education—from primary school through to secondary and beyond. This ensures we’re preparing talent early and addressing future skills shortages.”
In parallel with talent development, Malaysia is fast becoming a regional hub for data centres, an essential driver of AI and broader digital transformation.
“Malaysia is already attracting global data centre investments. We have the infrastructure, resources, and policy environment to support this growth—and we are building an ecosystem that positions us as a regional leader,” he said.
Gobind noted that data centres are more than just physical assets—they are foundational to powering AI technologies and catalysing economic opportunities across sectors.
“These ecosystems around data centres will drive innovation and job creation. They are essential to our vision for a thriving digital economy.”
He concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to a holistic, cross-sector approach to AI development—ensuring that talent, infrastructure, and policy evolve together to support Malaysia’s digital ambitions.
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Issued by:
Office of the Minister
Ministry of Digital, Malaysia
