Malaysia targets 300,000 AI jobs by 2030
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia aims to generate between 0.8 and 1.2 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) from artificial intelligence (AI) by 2030, while creating up to 300,000 new jobs.
Malaysia sets its sights on creating 300,000 AI jobs by 2030, with the goal of generating between 0.8 and 1.2 percent of its GDP from artificial intelligence. The National AI Action Plan 2026-2030 aims to bolster the country's AI capabilities, promote adoption across industries, and develop locally crafted AI solutions. Director of AI policy at the National AI Office, Mohamed Nor Reza Mohamed Ali, emphasized the importance of transitioning from merely using AI technology to producing and competing with AI solutions on an international scale.
Retailers play a crucial role in Malaysia's AI transformation, as they contribute significantly to the economy and entrepreneurial activity. AI can assist businesses in boosting productivity, making informed decisions, and enhancing customer service, with natural-language tools simplifying usage without requiring specialized programming skills.
However, businesses must learn to apply AI effectively and responsibly to achieve meaningful results. The national action plan covers various sectors, including healthcare, smart cities, public services, higher education, and agri-food, as well as industry-led initiatives in oil and gas, energy, telecommunications, and finance. To support these efforts, talent development, research and innovation, stronger digital infrastructure, and measures to build public trust in AI will be prioritized.
Malaysia is working on enhancing its AI governance framework through guidelines and policy development, as well as establishing the Malaysia AI Safety Institute to provide technical advice and support the assessment of AI systems.
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.
