Anwar: Malaysia must move beyond traditional manufacturing, strengthen AI capabilities
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia must move beyond traditional manufacturing and strengthen its capabilities in high-end technology, particularly artificial intelligence.
Malaysia must transition away from conventional manufacturing and bolster its high-tech expertise, especially in artificial intelligence, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Prime Minister emphasized this importance as Malaysia navigates a more competitive global economic environment. At the Khazanah Megatrends Forum 2026, Anwar engaged in talks with key individuals from the technology and academic communities, discussing technological progress, geopolitical shifts, and Malaysia's economic trajectory.
These discussions included conversations with semiconductor industry leader Datuk Fong Swee Kiang, who highlighted the necessity for Malaysia to enhance its high-end technology capabilities and capitalize on the AI-driven technological wave. Anwar reiterated the shared belief in moving beyond traditional manufacturing and enhancing Malaysia's high-end technology prowess, particularly in the AI super-cycle.
Furthermore, discussions with Professor Charles O Reilly and Professor Stephen Kotkin delved into the themes of transformative change and the necessity for institutions to ascend the technological value chain. These talks also addressed the shifting geopolitical and economic landscape, including the competition among major powers and its impact on Malaysia.
Anwar stressed the indispensable role of robust governance and strong institutions in the face of corruption and abuse of power. He underscored that Malaysia's success in leveraging technological advancements would hinge not just on the development of high-end industries, but also on the fortitude and integrity of its institutional framework.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
