KUALA LUMPUR - In a bid to fortify Malaysia's position in the global artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) unveiled the AI Sandbox Pilot Programme.
The groundbreaking initiative, a strategic collaboration between the National Technology Innovation Sandbox (NTIS) spearheaded by Mranti and NVIDIA Corporation, aimed to propel Malaysia towards a knowledge-based economy driven by AI innovation and talent cultivation.
Minister Chang Lih Kang emphasised that Mosti was committed to develop the AI talent pool in the country which involved the provision of upskilling and reskilling programmes focused on AI-related skills.
"These programmes are designed to equip the local workforce with the necessary knowledge and expertise to harness the potential of AI in their respective fields.
"We are setting a new benchmark for Malaysia's presence on the global stage," he said.
He also highlighted the programme's ambitious goals of nurturing 900 AI startups by 2026 and fostering over 13,000 new AI talents, projecting a potential 10 per cent economic growth through the creation of new industries and job opportunities.
Aligned with Malaysia's national goal of incubating 100 AI companies to generate RM1 billion in revenue by 2030, the AI Sandbox Pilot Programme signalled a concerted effort to drive innovation and competitiveness in the international arena.
"This collaboration not only promises new economic opportunities but also nurtures entrepreneurship, attracts foreign investment and creates high-value job opportunities in emerging AI-driven industries.
"With NVIDIA's support, the programme will address training and capacity building in AI, ensuring Malaysia's workforce remains competitive and adaptable in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
"The AI Sandbox Pilot Programme is designed to accelerate AI adoption across Malaysian organisations, bridging the gap between existing practices and global industry norms.
"By encouraging trial projects and proofs of concept, the initiative aims to showcase the tangible benefits and viability of AI technology, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders," he said.
Mranti chief executive officer Datuk Dr Rais Hussin highlighted the collaboration's holistic approach, encompassing training for startups, innovation ecosystems, professors and educators.
"This comprehensive strategy ensures that Malaysia's top talents are equipped with key AI skills, poised to play a pivotal role in cultivating the nation's AI-ready workforce.
"The AI Sandbox is designed as a catalyst for innovation, propelling our economy forward and positioning Malaysia as a leader in the AI space.
"By encouraging Malaysian organisations to adopt AI technologies, we are not only showcasing the practical advantages and feasibility of such adoption but also highlighting the significant return on investment and long-term benefits that come with it," he said during the launching of the AI Sandbox Pilot Programme, here, today.
Meanwhile, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir who was also present at the programme's launching said the first AI Faculty in Malaysia has been set up at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM).
"The faculty will be launched by the Prime Minister on May 10 and the Higher Education Minister is expecting the AI faculty to begin its academic programme in October.
"The AI development and curriculum has been identified to fulfil industrial needs, involving experts in the AI field and in line with the National Artificial Intelligence Roadmap 2021-2025 initiated by Mosti," he said.
Zambry also noted that Higher Education Minister was working towards realising the country’s agenda to grow skilled talents that meet industrial requirements and future-proof graduates.
"With a shared commitment to advancing Malaysia's AI capabilities, the collaboration between Mranti, NVIDIA and government agencies highlight the nation's role as an active proponent of AI-based solutions.
"By harnessing the collective strengths of government, industry and academia, the AI Sandbox Pilot Programme initiative is set to position Malaysia as a formidable force in the global AI revolution, driving innovation and shaping the future of technology," he said.