KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia has taken a significant step towards strengthening its artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing capabilities after signing a strategic partnership with IBM Malaysia to support the country's long-term digital transformation agenda.
The Government, represented by the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), today signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with IBM Malaysia Sdn Bhd to explore collaboration in advancing Malaysia's Sovereign AI and quantum computing ambitions.
The agreement was witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the National Cybersecurity Summit 2026 in Cyberjaya.
In a statement by the MCMC, it said that the central to the collaboration is the proposed establishment of the National Quantum and Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence (NQAIC), envisioned as a national platform to accelerate innovation, strengthen research and prepare Malaysia for the opportunities and challenges presented by next-generation technologies.
“The proposed centre will bring together government agencies, academia, industry players and strategic partners to promote knowledge sharing, research collaboration, innovation and talent development in AI and quantum technologies.
“The initiative is also expected to complement Malaysia's broader efforts to strengthen digital resilience, enhance technological competitiveness and encourage the responsible adoption of emerging technologies,” the statement read.
Under the MoU, the three parties identified three key areas of collaboration.
The MCMC also added that the first focuses on developing Malaysia's AI and quantum ecosystem by exploring the establishment of the NQAIC and encouraging collaboration across government, academia and industry to drive innovation and responsible technology adoption.
It said that the second centres on trusted governance and security, supporting the development of secure, resilient and responsible AI and quantum technologies aligned with Malaysia's national priorities while strengthening the country's digital resilience.
“The third area aims to enhance innovation, national capabilities and talent development through research, technical collaboration, knowledge sharing and skills development, while leveraging IBM's global expertise and best practices.
“The collaboration will be guided by the principles of technology neutrality, trusted governance, responsible innovation and openness to strategic partnerships,” the commission said.
The MVMC said the initiative reflects Malaysia's commitment to building secure and resilient capabilities in frontier technologies while ensuring innovation benefits government, businesses and society.
As AI and quantum technologies increasingly shape global economic growth and national competitiveness, the partnership is expected to strengthen Malaysia's position as a trusted regional hub for Sovereign AI, quantum innovation and secure digital infrastructure. - July 9, 2026
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