JOINT MEDIA RELEASE
Harnessing AI for Informed Policymaking and Positive Governance
AI for Policymakers initiative to equip MPs with AI knowledge
KUALA LUMPUR, 24 February 2025 – Malaysia is taking another bold step in embracing artificial intelligence (AI) as a key enabler of good governance. The ‘AI for Policymakers’ initiative was introduced today in Parliament with a two-day showcase (24-25 February 2025) designed to provide Members of Parliament (MPs) with critical AI knowledge, global best practices, and data-driven insights. The initiative will culminate in a dedicated training session for MPs on 28 February 2025.
This pioneering initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Parliament of Malaysia, National AI Office (NAIO), UNITAR International University’s Centre of Leadership, Governance and Democracy, and Microsoft.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Johari bin Abdul, officiated the event. He was accompanied by the Secretary General, Ministry of Digital, Fabian Bigar; Head of the National AI Office (NAIO), Shamsul Izhan bin Abdul Majid; ViceChancellor of UNITAR International University, Professor Emeritus Tan Sri Dato Sri Ir. Dr. Sahol Hamid Bin Abu Bakar; and Managing Director of Microsoft Malaysia, Laurence Si. Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo also made time to visit the showcase.
AI is rapidly transforming global policymaking, and Malaysia is proactively preparing its leaders to govern in an AI-driven future. By leveraging AI’s capabilities, analysing its economic impact, and proactively addressing its risks and challenges through data-driven insights and research, policymakers can formulate forward-thinking policies that enhance national competitiveness while upholding public trust and safeguarding societal interests. The initiative also extends beyond MPs, with structured AI training planned for Parliament officers and support teams, ensuring a comprehensive approach to AI adoption, responsible use, and ethical governance.
Rooted in the Quadruple Helix model, the initiative unites government, academia, and industry, to create a robust and future-ready AI ecosystem with the rakyat at the heart of the AI transformation. With AI integration in governance, Malaysia aims to enhance policy efficiency, strengthen ethical AI governance, and accelerate digital transformation.
The ‘AI for Policymakers’ event included showcases on Responsible AI and AI governance, AI skilling opportunities, and a demonstration of how AI enables the work of policymakers. Following the showcase, a phased training programme will provide handson learning for MPs and parliamentary officers. This structured engagement will equip decision-makers with the tools to navigate AI’s transformative impact on governance, anticipate emerging challenges, and implement AI-driven policies that foster economic growth, social progress, and digital trust.
This initiative builds on NAIO and Microsoft’s ‘AI for Malaysia’s Future’ programme, which aims to upskill 800,000 Malaysians by end of 2025, and complements "The Future of Malaysia’s AI Governance" report published by MyDIGITAL Corporation in collaboration with ISIS Malaysia and Microsoft. Recently, the Government also launched the ‘AI at Work’ programme to equip 445,000 public officers with generative AI tools for enhanced public services efficiency and delivery.
Malaysia’s commitment to AI goes beyond efficiency -- it is about building trust, transparency, and inclusivity in governance. Moving forward, the Government will continue forging strategic partnerships with global tech leaders to accelerate AI-driven solutions, upskill the workforce, and attract investments -- laying the foundation for a smarter, more sustainable Malaysia where the rakyat truly benefits from AI innovation.
END
Issued by:
Strategic Communications Unit
Ministry of Digital
