Malaysia eyes role as key AI, tech hub

Malaysia is strengthening its governance on artificial intelligence, or AI, and cloud technology as it vies to become a key technology hub, but analysts warned such policies need to consider the impact of emerging technologies on people and the planet.

Some of the biggest tech companies, including Google, Nvidia, and Microsoft, have pledged to invest in Southeast Asia's third-biggest economy, boosting Malaysia's popularity as a cloud and AI data center hub.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has said the government plans to create a national cloud policy and introduce regulations on the ethical use of AI. Deputy Minister of Economy Hanifah Hajar Taib said expanding the AI ecosystem is part of the 13th Malaysia Plan, or 13MP, the national development program for 2026-30.