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Malaysian Government to launch National Artificial Intelligence Office

05 November 2024

Following the Cabinet’s approval of the establishment of the National Artificial Intelligence Office (“NAIO”) within MyDigital Corporation on 28 August 2024, the Digital Minister of Malaysia, Gobind Singh Deo, announced on 28 October 2024 that the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, will launch the NAIO on 12 December 2024.1
 
According to the Digital Minister:
 
  • The NAIO will play a key role in helping the Government to formulate policies for the development of artificial Intelligence (“AI”) in Malaysia;

  • After the launch of the NAIO, the Government will obtain input from AI industry players on what they need to develop AI in Malaysia;

  • The NAIO or the Government will endeavour to balance the benefits and risks of AI;

  • Establishing the NAIO is part of the Government’s efforts to position Malaysia as a key player in South-East Asia and the broader global landscape;

  • The NAIO will enhance the country’s capabilities by supporting the integration of AI into government, industry and societal frameworks; and

  • The NAIO will lead initiatives that leverage AI to strengthen the digital economy, improve public service performance, and contribute to sustainable development.
 
It was also announced during the 2025 Malaysian Budget that RM10 million will be allocated to the NAIO to enhance efforts to increase the adoption of AI through collaborations with the academia and industry.2
 
We await further details of the role and organisation structure of the NAIO and the initiatives that the NAIO will introduce after it has been launched next month.
 
Alert by Jillian Chia (Partner) and Natalie Lim (Partner) of the Technology, Media and Telecommunications Practice of Skrine.
 
1 All geared up for new AI arm in December; Star Online, 28 October 2024.
2 Paragraph 121 of the 2025 Malaysian Budget Speech.

This alert contains general information only. It does not constitute legal advice nor an expression of legal opinion and should not be relied upon as such. For further information, kindly contact skrine@skrine.com.

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