KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) is placing artificial intelligence (AI) at the core of the nation’s digital transformation strategy, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo announced. Central to this effort is the upcoming AI Nation Framework, a priority initiative under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, designed to harness Malaysia’s 5G network for smart city solutions built on existing data infrastructure.
The plan also introduces the concept of a “data commission” and a national “data bank” to strengthen digital trust and support the vision of becoming an AI-driven nation. These initiatives will be showcased at the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025 (SCEKL25) from September 17–19, highlighting Malaysia’s progress in integrating AI into urban development.
Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) will lead the AI Cities initiative, complementing the Ministry of Housing and Local Government’s Smart Cities programme. The goal is to translate strategic leadership into real-world innovation with tangible local benefits.
As part of the 5G Enterprise and AI City Grant programme, 14 recipients — including universities, companies, and local authorities — have been awarded funding for projects across agriculture, healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, and education. These solutions, ranging from autonomous drone corridors to AI-powered transport systems, are designed to be scalable and replicable nationwide.
Minister Gobind emphasised that the initiatives will empower SMEs and public institutions, ensuring innovation benefits grassroots communities. The AI Nation Framework’s five pillars focus on forward-looking AI policies, a digitally skilled workforce, secure infrastructure, digital trust, and strategic investments to position Malaysia as a regional AI hub.
Ultimately, the government’s strategy seeks to make AI an enabler for all Malaysians — enhancing public services, bridging development gaps, expanding access to healthcare and education, and supporting small businesses — while ensuring ethical, inclusive, and globally competitive AI adoption.
