PRESS RELEASE

MY-AI STANDARDS TO ANCHOR TRUSTED AI DEVELOPMENT AND ADDRESS DEEPFAKE RISKS

PUTRAJAYA, March 16, 2026 — As artificial intelligence reshapes economies and societies around the world, Malaysia is moving decisively to ensure it is prepared for that future.

The launch of the MY-AI Standards recently marks an important step in strengthening the country’s digital ecosystem as it advances towards its aspiration of becoming an AI Nation by 2030. The standards complement a series of initiatives currently underway, including the Digital Trust and Data Security Strategy 2026–2030 to be launched later this year, the Malaysia Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Plan 2026–2030 that is being finalised, as well as the development of the AI Governance Bill and the National AI Code of Ethics, alongside expanded AI literacy programmes.

The MY-AI Standards will serve as a “trust infrastructure”, providing a practical framework for the development and implementation of AI standards in Malaysia. By adopting a “trust by design” approach, the platform ensures that AI technologies are developed and deployed based on clear, transparent and auditable standards.

At a time when AI can also be misused to generate deepfakes, digital impersonation and other forms of deceptive content, trusted standards are critical. Without proper safeguards, such technologies can be exploited for scams, financial fraud and misinformation that undermine public trust and information integrity.

The standards will also complement national efforts to combat AI-enabled fraud and digital scams, which have become an increasing concern as malicious actors exploit emerging technologies. By embedding requirements for transparency, traceability and accountability into AI systems, the MY-AI Standards help reduce opportunities for misuse while supporting law enforcement and regulatory efforts to address AI-related crimes.

AI standards will therefore serve as a common language between the Government, industry, investors and the people — translating digital trust from principles into practical implementation.

The platform will also support wider adoption of AI across industries — from micro-, small-, and medium-enterprises (MSMEs) to National Critical Information Infrastructures (NCIIs) — enabling organisations to innovate with greater confidence while ensuring responsible deployment.

Malaysia is also strengthening its capacity in AI standards internationally through strategic engagement in global platforms, including participation in the development of standards under ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 42 on artificial intelligence.

With the establishment of MY-AI Standards, Malaysia continues to reinforce its ambition to emerge as an AI Nation by 2030 — one that not only develops and adopts AI, but also contributes to the advancement of trusted, secure, and responsible AI standards globally.

GOBIND SINGH DEO

Minister of Digital

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