Malaysia is building its own digital cloud to safeguard data sovereignty, minister says

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced plans for Malaysia to develop its own sovereign artificial intelligence (AI) cloud, according to Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil. Fahmi stated that this initiative is crucial to protect Malaysia’s digital sovereignty, especially when it comes to storing sensitive government information, like official documents, that could be at risk if placed on public cloud services.

Some countries have policies and laws that make public cloud use less secure, particularly for classified data. Therefore, Malaysia has decided to develop a sovereign AI cloud, managed by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Communications Ministry. Fahmi highlighted that the initiative would help ensure uninterrupted connectivity, even when users move beyond village areas.

The government has allocated RM5 billion under Budget 2027 to expand high-quality Internet coverage, particularly in rural and remote areas. Fahmi emphasized that improved Internet connectivity would benefit entrepreneurs, students, and the general public, enabling them to participate in digital learning, access information, and apply for government services online.