The much-anticipated National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) was launched today, cementing Malaysia’s commitment to accelerating the nation’s digital transformation.
Tasked with driving the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in the country, NAIO will focus on five key priorities – investments, innovation, collaboration, policy, and governance and security.
NAIO was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre this morning. Today also marks the Digital Ministry’s first anniversary.
In his speech, Anwar said digital literacy has become a must – from schools, to universities.
“NAIO can spearhead the government’s digital transformation,” he said.
“We need to constantly transform, as transformation is a revolution, and we require leadership from both the public, and private sectors.”
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said Malaysia is taking the necessary steps to address the digital challenges at hand, while aspiring to take a leadership role in the region by establishing NAIO.
“Everyone in this room (hall) understands artificial intelligence (AI) will change everything.
“As we move ahead, we need an agency that looks at ‘What’s next’. That is the idea behind the National AI Office. We need to inspire people to keep looking ahead,” he said.
“AI will impact all industries. Health, for example – we will be able to predict diseases and where we will be in 10 years. In agriculture, we can look at how palm oil plantations are managed, to ensure there is no wastage.
“In schools, we live in an era where classrooms are equipped with televisions, and students have smartphones. We can either restrict access to devices or encourage new thinking – by teaching them how to use smart devices responsibly.
“We need to shift, in the way we think,” he added.
RM10 million was allocated to NAIO under Budget 2025, tabled in October. NAIO is located at MoF Inc Tower, Platinum Park, in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s Golden Triangle.
Shamsul Izhan Abdul Majid will head NAIO.
NAIO aims to enhance the country’s AI capabilities by promoting innovation, enabling cross-sector collaboration, and supporting the integration of AI into government, industry, and societal frameworks.
It will spearhead initiatives that leverage AI to strengthen the digital economy and improve public services. Additionally, it will contribute to sustainable development goals.
