NAIO engages stakeholders to shape Malaysia's AI landscape

KUALA LUMPUR: THE National AI Office (NAIO) today announced the establishment of specialised Working Groups (WGs) to drive Malaysia’s AI agenda, marking a significant approach in the nation’s journey toward becoming a leading AI-driven economy.

Following extensive engagement with key stakeholders since its inception in December 2024, NAIO has identified a diverse group of experts and community representatives to contribute to these WGs. These members bring expertise in technology, policy, ethics, security, education, and societal impact to ensure Malaysia’s AI strategy is holistic, resilient, and sustainable.

Driving AI Innovation with Multi-Stakeholder Expertise

The NAIO WGs unite experts and community members from diverse sectors -- technology, academia, industry, government agencies, and civil society -- motivated by a shared commitment to nation building. They bring their collective expertise and experiences to shape AI advancements guided by ethical principles, public interest, and long-term sustainability.

Each WG has clear objectives, deliverables and milestones, ensuring structured progress over their tenure. They will work closely with sectoral teams to translate AI strategies into practical, real-world applications that directly impact Malaysia’s economic and social landscape.

Key Focus Areas of the Working Groups encompass:

● AI Sovereignty: Strengthening Malaysia’s control over AI capabilities, data, and infrastructure. ● AI Regulation & Policy: Developing a regulatory framework and national AI strategic direction. ● AI Security: Addressing risks and threats posed by AI to ensure national and digital security. ● AI Governance & Ethics: Operationalising governance models and ethical guidelines. ● AI Safety: Ensuring AI systems are trustworthy, reliable, and aligned with public interest. ● AI Talent: Building a robust AI talent pipeline in Malaysia. ● AI Advisory: Providing insights on emerging AI trends and realworld implementation challenges.

The WGs represent an inclusive approach driving the nation AI leadership, with diverse expertise playing a vital role in shaping policies that will impact all communities.

Through this initiative, Malaysia aims to:

● Enhance the Malaysian AI governance framework and instill public trust. ● Accelerate AI adoption across key industries, including healthcare, transportation, agriculture and public services. ● Facilitate AI talent development, equipping the workforce with future-ready skills. ● Position Malaysia as an AI Nation. ● Ensure AI policies reflect societal needs and values.

The Working Groups officially commence work this month (February 2025). This important initiative reflects NAIO’s commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s competitive edge in the digital economy.

NAIO welcomes participation across sectors, to ensure a holistic and impactful AI strategy for Malaysia. Submission of interest and suggestions can be channelled to: [email protected].

The press statement is issued by Corporate Communications Unit, Ministry of Digital