PRESS RELEASE
TECH DIPLOMACY GLOBAL 50 NAMES MINISTER OF DIGITAL AS AMONG WORLD’S INFLUENTIAL LEADERS ADVANCING RESPONSIBLE TECH POLICY, DIGITAL GOVERNANCE
PUTRAJAYA, February 3, 2026 – Minister of Digital, Gobind Singh Deo, has once again been recognised for his work in the digital sphere, this time by the Tech Diplomacy Global Institute — the world's premier organisation bridging technology and global policy.
The Paris-based Tech Diplomacy Global Institute, established in collaboration with UNESCO, listed Gobind in its ‘2026 Tech Diplomacy Global 50’ for his contributions to technology diplomacy and his “exceptional leadership in shaping the intersection of technology and international relations.”
He is joined by, among others, Clara Chappaz, Ambassador for Digital Affairs and AI, France; Anne Marie Engtoft, Tech Ambassador, Denmark; Paula Bogantes Zamora, Costa Rica’s Minister of Science, Innovation, Technology and Telecommunications; Amandeep Gill, UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology, United Nations, India; and Omar Al Olama, Minister of State for AI in the UAE.
This latest recognition comes just after UK-based Apolitical, the world’s largest online platform for governments, recognised Gobind’s efforts in driving Malaysia’s artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and digital transformation agenda in its latest ‘The Government AI 100’ list.
Gobind said he is humbled by the latest recognition and that such acknowledgements shine a spotlight on Malaysia’s digital transformation journey as the country aims to become an AI Nation by 2030.
“This is not just a recognition for Gobind Singh Deo, but one for the Ministry of Digital and Malaysia. It shows that the world is keeping close tabs on our digital efforts, policies, and our push to create a digital nation in a secure and trusted environment,” said Gobind.
“My team at the Ministry of Digital and its agencies have been steering our national digitalisation agenda since the ministry was set up in 2023. We are encouraged by such recognition, and this will further fuel us to accelerate our goals of turning Malaysia into a digital hub in Southeast Asia.”
Gobind also thanked Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his forward-thinking approach and determination in ensuring Malaysia’s digital landscape continues to thrive. This includes the amendment and passing of laws concerning digital technology and the establishment of the National AI Office (NAIO).
“Technology keeps evolving. As such, there is still much work to be done, but I believe we are on the right track. I am confident that our efforts will enable the digital economy to contribute 30% of the nation’s GDP by 2030. We will also see more Malaysians and businesses in Malaysia thrive and prosper in this AI era,” Gobind added.
Those featured in the 2026 Tech Diplomacy Global 50 have been invited to attend the Tech Diplomacy Global Forum on 2 July 2026 at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, followed by a gala dinner in their honour.
The Tech Diplomacy Global Institute is the world’s first permanent, neutral platform for coordinating global technology governance. It helps bridge governments, industry, academia, and civil society to build the coordinated infrastructure the digital age demands.
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Issued by:
Minister of Digital’s Office
