KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 12 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today outlined five pillars of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Nation Framework to ensure AI works for every Malaysian.
He said the strong pillars are: forward-looking policies, an agile and digitally-fluent workforce, secure and reliable digital infrastructure, the advancement of digital trust, and strategic investments that will create a thriving AI ecosystem through public-private partnerships and global collaboration.
“These pillars will drive the Madani Economy, making AI advanced, inclusive, trusted, and built for purpose. This is more than a roadmap; it is a movement. The Digital Ministry, with the National AI Office at its core, will lead this initiative,” he said in his keynote address at the launch of the Asean AI Malaysia Summit 2025 (AAIMS25) today.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, reiterated that under the recently tabled 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), Malaysia has set a goal to become an AI nation as digital transformation must drive sustainable and inclusive growth.
“At the centre of that transformation is our ambition to be an AI Nation. AI will not be a tool for the few; it will be a force for all, powering better governance, sparking innovation, and improving lives,” he said. “Through our AI Nation Framework, we will ensure AI works for every Malaysian, in every corner of the country.”
He also noted that with nearly 700 million people, a fast-growing digital economy, and a rich diversity of cultures and languages, Asean is uniquely positioned to shape the development of AI in a way that is inclusive, ethical, and aligned with the region’s shared values. Thus, he emphasised the need for the region to act boldly and with foresight in seizing this generational opportunity.
“If we approach this moment with foresight and courage, AI can bridge development divides, empower small businesses, uplift rural communities, strengthen public services, and expand access to healthcare, education, and a more pronounced justice for all.
“Our vision is not only to harness AI just to catch up with the rest of the world, but to lead in some areas, to protect our values, to give meaning to the principle of equity and justice,” he added.
On Malaysia’s part, Anwar said the country has made bold, confident strides in digitalisation and AI, citing the creation of a dedicated Digital Ministry as a major step forward.
