TLDR: Malaysia is significantly advancing its role in global artificial intelligence (AI) policy and governance through active international collaborations. By joining key international bodies like the Hiroshima Artificial Intelligence Process Friends Group (HAIPFG), Malaysia aims to contribute to global discussions, develop local AI talent, and implement comprehensive national AI policies, including the National AI Roadmap 2021–2025 and the upcoming National AI Action Plan 2026–2030, with the goal of improving its global AI rankings.
Malaysia is making substantial strides in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) by actively engaging with international partners and bodies to shape global AI policy and governance. This proactive approach is designed to navigate the rapid advancements in AI technology, cultivate domestic talent, and establish robust policies and regulations both within the country and on the international stage.
A significant step in this direction is Malaysia’s membership in the Hiroshima Artificial Intelligence Process Friends Group (HAIPFG). This voluntary framework, launched in May 2024, unites nations committed to the principles of the Hiroshima AI Process. The group held its inaugural physical meeting in Tokyo in February 2025, marking a crucial platform for collaborative AI governance discussions.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo emphasized the strategic importance of these international affiliations. He stated that Malaysia’s participation in vital global networks, such as the Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and HAIPFG, enables the nation to directly contribute to policy formulation, discussions, and the exchange of best practices concerning the Fourth Industrial Revolution and AI governance at a global level.
Domestically, the Malaysian government has already implemented the National AI Roadmap 2021–2025. This comprehensive plan is designed to foster AI technology transfer through various initiatives, including talent development, collaborative research and development, sandbox operations for testing AI solutions, and the establishment of robust safety standards. Building on this foundation, the National Artificial Intelligence Organisation (NAIO) is currently in the process of drafting the National AI Action Plan 2026–2030. This forthcoming plan aims to solidify Malaysia’s position as a regional AI hub by setting ambitious targets to enhance the country’s global AI rankings.
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Currently, Malaysia is ranked 26th out of 36 countries in the Stanford HAI AI Index (2023) and 24th out of 193 countries in the Oxford Insights Government AI Readiness Index (2024). The government is intensifying its efforts to achieve higher rankings, underscoring its commitment to becoming a leader in the global AI landscape.
