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MALAYSIA’S forthcoming AI Technology Action Plan 2026–2030 will reinforce ethical safeguards and governance frameworks surrounding the use of artificial intelligence, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo has announced.
Speaking after the National AI Competition 2025 at Sunway University today, Gobind said the new plan would build upon the existing National Artificial Intelligence Governance and Ethics Guidelines (AIGE), which were introduced last year to mitigate risks associated with AI misuse.
“Ethical use of AI is a critical issue. We’ve already implemented guidelines, and this action plan will further reinforce them,” he told reporters.
The AI Technology Action Plan 2026–2030 is a continuation of the AI Roadmap 2021–2025 and will focus on enhancing collaboration between government, industry, academia, and civil society. The plan is intended to encourage widespread AI adoption across key sectors, facilitate knowledge-sharing, and promote sustainable development of AI talent in Malaysia.
Gobind added that the government is also exploring a broader AI governance framework, with hopes to introduce formal measures by mid-2026 that will address safety, transparency, and accountability.
“We’re also looking into AI governance. Hopefully by mid-next year, we’ll be able to introduce a framework that addresses safety and accountability in AI,” he said.
Noting the accelerated pace of AI development, Gobind stressed the need for stronger oversight mechanisms to ensure responsible deployment of the technology.
“I view this positively. AI is the future. People will increasingly use applications powered by it, and we must be prepared,” he said. “Of course, as we move forward, challenges will arise, including potential risks. These are the aspects we need to address.”
The minister also pointed out that the rapid growth of AI presents major opportunities for innovation and employment, urging Malaysians to embrace the evolving digital landscape in line with the government’s vision of a fully digitalised nation.
“To achieve this, we are focusing on infrastructure, security and talent development. Ultimately, we must ensure the country is ‘AI-ready’,” Gobind said. - July 19, 2025
