Accra:Malaysia's digital industry has hailed Budget 2027 as a crucial advancement in the nation's digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) goals, commending its comprehensive focus on the digital economy, infrastructure, the rakyat, and government.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, industry leaders believe that the initiatives in the budget could enhance business competitiveness, promote AI adoption, improve connectivity, and modernize public services, ensuring more Malaysians benefit from the digital economy.
Malaysian Digital Association president Nicholas Sagau labeled Budget 2027 as a clear indication of Malaysia's intent to become a leading digital and AI-driven economy. He emphasized the importance of investments in data centers, infrastructure, and policy frameworks, and highlighted the budget's focus on equipping Malaysians with the necessary skills for an AI-powered future.
Nicholas remarked that the budget's true value would rely on how effectively businesses and individuals can convert these opportunities into practical outcomes. He welcomed initiatives such as providing 100,000 additional free AI subscriptions for young Malaysians and access to over 16,000 digital courses and certifications.
Malaysia Internet Exchange chairman Chiew Kok Hin stressed the need for continued investment in digital infrastructure to support the country's expanding digital ecosystem. He praised initiatives like JENDELA, the MADANI Submarine Cable, and plans for a Sovereign AI Cloud, which are seen as crucial for ensuring reliable and affordable connectivity.
Chiew noted the significant increase in peak internet traffic at MyIX, underscoring the growing demand for connectivity and digital services. MyIX is also enhancing digital inclusion through programs like the Digital Classroom CSR initiative, which provides smart boards to schools in underserved areas.
Internet Alliance president Dr. Sunny Ooi welcomed the budget's emphasis on digital government, particularly the RM947.29 million allocated for Digital Government Services and the aim to make 85 percent of government services fully online by 2027. He cited the growing use of MyDigital ID, with over 14 million users, as evidence of the country's readiness for secure digital transactions.
Ooi also applauded the RM30 million allocation through the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation to boost AI adoption among micro, small, and medium enterprises and train 5,000 AI professionals. He emphasized the role of AI as a productivity tool for SMEs, which can help them automate processes, improve customer engagement, and analyze business data effectively.
Industry associations agree that collaboration between the public and private sectors is vital to achieving Budget 2027's digital objectives, particularly in productivity gains, talent development, and national competitiveness. They acknowledged the leadership of Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo in advancing Malaysia's aspiration to become an AI Nation by 2030.
Ooi concluded that the focus now should be on execution, with the industry prepared to work with the government to ensure the initiatives deliver substantial benefits for businesses, the rakyat, and the economy.