Kuala Lumpur:Malaysia's digital industry has embraced Budget 2027 as a significant advancement towards the nation's digital transformation and AI goals, applauding its comprehensive focus on enhancing the digital economy, infrastructure, and public services.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, industry leaders believe the budget initiatives could bolster business competitiveness, drive AI adoption, improve connectivity, and modernize public services, ensuring broader participation in the digital economy.
Malaysian Digital Association president Nicholas Sagau noted that Budget 2027 signals Malaysia's determination to lead as a digital and AI-driven economy. He emphasized the importance of investments in data centers and infrastructure but highlighted the focus on equipping Malaysians with necessary skills for an AI-powered future.
Sagau pointed out that the budget's success will depend on how businesses and individuals capitalize on these opportunities. He welcomed measures like 100,000 free AI subscriptions for young Malaysians and access to over 16,000 digital courses, stressing that success should be measured by how these resources are leveraged to create new economic opportunities.
Malaysia Internet Exchange chairman Chiew Kok Hin stressed the need for continued investment in digital infrastructure to support the nation's digital ecosystem. He welcomed initiatives like JENDELA, the MADANI Submarine Cable, and plans for a Sovereign AI Cloud, which he believes will enhance connectivity and digital services access.
Internet Alliance president Dr. Sunny Ooi praised the budget's emphasis on digital government, highlighting the RM947.29 million allocation for Digital Government Services. He noted the growing adoption of MyDigital ID as a sign of readiness for secure digital transactions and advocated for partnerships to build user-friendly digital services.
Ooi also commended the RM30 million allocation through the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation for AI adoption and automation among 4,000 MSMEs, alongside programs to train 5,000 AI professionals. He emphasized that AI can improve productivity, especially for SMEs, by streamlining operations and reducing costs.
Industry associations agreed that public-private collaboration will be crucial for achieving the digital ambitions of Budget 2027, with a focus on productivity, talent development, and national competitiveness. They acknowledged Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo's leadership in steering Malaysia towards becoming an AI nation by 2030.