Malaysia Targets Clear Progress In AI Standards Framework Within 12 Months - Gobind

CYBERJAYA, March 10  (Bernama) -- The government expects the country’s artificial intelligence (AI) standards framework to show clear progress within the next 12 months, marking a key step toward positioning Malaysia as an 'AI Nation' by 2030.

Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the development of the framework is crucial to ensure that AI technology used in the country is safe, ethical and aligned with existing laws, as the technology increasingly influences various sectors.

He said the framework would consist of three main components, namely standards development, regulation and compliance, and legislation and enforcement.

Gobind explained that the first phase involves the development of AI standards through the involvement of industry experts to establish sector-specific guidelines, without initially requiring dedicated legislation.

“After that, we will look at the regulatory and compliance aspects, followed by the legislative component involving enforcement,” he told reporters after launching My-AI Standards here today.

He said building the framework would require the establishment of a strong structure that brings together relevant experts while identifying the appropriate agencies responsible for implementing and enforcing the standards.

According to him, the process will take time as it involves coordinating multiple stakeholders and establishing institutions capable of supporting the country’s AI ecosystem.

“This will take time, but as I said, the start is today. By 2030, we hope to see institutions built for that purpose,” he said.

My-AI Standards is a national digital platform that functions as a one-stop centre for learning, collaboration and support for the implementation of AI standards in Malaysia.

The platform was developed through the implementing agency CyberSecurity Malaysia in strategic collaboration with the National AI Office (NAIO) and supported by the Malaysian Standards Department and SIRIM Bhd.

Gobind said the development of the standards would also take into account local needs, including alignment with national laws, ethics, culture and community values.

At the same time, he said  Malaysia is reviewing standards adopted by other countries, particularly within the ASEAN region,  to ensure compatibility with both regional and global frameworks.

To support this effort, the government is collaborating with multiple stakeholders, including the Malaysian Standards Department, industry experts and international organisations such as the Malaysian Standards Department and the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO).

He added that My-AI Standards also supports the Malaysia AI Action Plan 2026-2030, which focuses on accelerating AI adoption in strategic sectors, developing national AI talent and strengthening responsible technology governance.

He explained that MY-AI Standards were created to help the public sector, industry, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and academic institutions understand and implement international AI standards more systematically and practically, thus ensuring that technological innovation develops in line with the principles of safety, ethics, transparency and reliability.

"Leadership in AI is not just about cutting-edge technology, but about building trust in the country's digital ecosystem through strong governance and adherence to internationally recognised standards," he said.

-- BERNAMA