KUALA LUMPUR: UK-based Apolitical, the world’s largest online platform for governments, has recognised Malaysia's Digital Minister, Gobind Singh Deo, for his efforts in driving the nation's artificial intelligence (AI), 5G and digital transformation agenda.
Gobind is part of Apolitical’s latest ‘The Government AI 100’ list, featuring leaders and experts worldwide who exemplify innovation and impact by shaping both AI governance frameworks and the practical use of AI in the public sector.
The list highlights Gobind as being “instrumental in positioning AI as a core pillar of Malaysia’s public sector modernisation, including establishing the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO).”
He oversaw foundational policy and regulatory initiatives that enable trusted AI adoption, such as strengthening cybersecurity legislation, modernising personal data protection, and proposing a Data Sharing Bill to support responsible data use across government agencies.
Gobind paid tribute to his team in the Digital Ministry, adding that they remain committed to working towards transforming Malaysia into an AI Nation by 2030.
“Being listed in Apolitical’s ‘The Government AI 100’ list, while an honour, is an acknowledgement of the hard work of everyone at the ministry and its agencies, who have come together to accelerate Malaysia’s digital transformation for the benefit of all Malaysians,” said Gobind.
“I would like to thank the ministry — which is only two years old — and its dedicated teams for their tireless work in building a strong digital foundation for the country, particularly in the area of AI.
“There is still much work to be done in further catalysing our shared ambitions in the AI age, but I believe we are heading in the right direction. As we move forward, our focus now shifts to strengthening our digital transformation efforts by ensuring that artificial intelligence delivers tangible and measurable impact to citizens, businesses and government — one that will ultimately benefit the country,” he added.
Among the others on the top 100 list are Michael Kratsios, Science and Technology Advisor to the President, White House, United States of America; Dr Fei-Fei Li, Co-Director of the Human-Centered AI Institute, Stanford University in California; Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU); Evelyn Grass, Head of the AI Division, Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, Germany; and Zhuang Rongwen, Director, Cyberspace Administration, China.
Also in the list are Omar Sultan Al Olama, the UAE Minister of State for AI, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, and Ohood Khalfan Al Roumi, the UAE Minister of State for Government Development and the Future.
An initial list of nominees was sourced through desk research as well as nominations from Apolitical’s learning partners and the wider Apolitical community of over 400,000 public servants. Each nominee was evaluated and scored based on their contributions to the categories listed above, their influence on AI governance, implementation and adoption, and their status as a public servant. The shortlist underwent an independent review by three external AI experts.
Apolitical is a global platform founded in 2015 to help governments work better. It empowers public servants by helping them learn, share best practices, and solve common challenges. Today, Apolitical is the world’s largest online community for governments, used by over 250,000 verified public servants across 170 countries, with partnerships that extend its reach to millions more worldwide.
