CYBERJAYA, 28 July – The government has formed AI Malaysia Berhad to coordinate the country’s artificial intelligence (AI) development, bringing together policy direction and implementation efforts under a single national entity.
The move formalises the institutionalisation of the National AI Office (NAIO), which was established on Dec 12, 2024, as Malaysia continues to build a more coordinated approach towards its AI agenda.
Operating under the Ministry of Digital, the body will focus on aligning national AI strategies with implementation efforts while supporting stronger governance, strategic collaborations and the development of Malaysia’s AI safety capabilities.
The initiative supports Malaysia’s aspiration to become an AI Nation by 2030, in line with the 13th Malaysia Plan and the Malaysia MADANI framework, which recognise AI as an important driver of economic growth, public sector transformation and inclusive development.
The government has also introduced the National AI Action Plan 2026 to 2030, outlining 14 sectoral initiatives and 14 supporting initiatives to strengthen the country’s AI ecosystem. The supporting initiatives are built around five key areas, namely globally competitive talent development, market driven innovation, data and computing infrastructure, responsible governance, and sustainable financing and investment.
The establishment of the national AI framework was announced today by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who also unveiled the next phase of Malaysia’s AI development agenda.
To strengthen confidence in the safe and responsible use of AI, Malaysia has established the Malaysia AI Safety Institute. The institute will bring together expertise from government, industry, academia and research institutions in areas including AI safety assessment, testing, AI red teaming, talent development, technology transfer, standards and risk management.
The government is also developing the AI Governance Bill, which adopts a risk based approach to provide legal clarity and protection while supporting innovation. The Bill is currently open for public consultation and is expected to be completed by the end of this year.