Significant strides in autonomous driving expected by 2028
The government aimed to integrate AI across all sectors, including the exploration of autonomous driving.
KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia's ambitious push to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into various sectors, particularly in autonomous driving is expected to yield significant strides by 2028.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang said the government aimed to integrate AI across all sectors, including the exploration of autonomous driving.
"These domains are subject to rigorous regulations, with dedicated sandboxes established for autonomous driving.
"Notably, a 12-kilometre track has been designated specifically for testing autonomous vehicles," he said after the launching of the AI Sandbox Pilot Programme at Mranti Park, here.
Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (Mranti) chief executive officer Datuk Dr Rais Hussin also revealed that during a visit to the AV Tech Centre, discussions were held focusing on the imminent deployment of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on public roads.
"An expert indicated that by 2028, AV technology may reach a stage of readiness for road usage, pending equipment advancements.
"However, the Transport Ministry must establish regulatory frameworks to accompany this progress.
"While 2028 is a potential milestone, specific criteria for AV usage in various road settings are still under development, indicating ongoing progress in this area," he said after the programme's launching.
Meanwhile, Worldwide AI Initiatives NVIDIA vice president Keith Strier said an important aspect to consider was that the transition to autonomy extended beyond cars alone.
"Various moving objects, including tractors, cranes, boats and trains are poised to become autonomous.
"As these machines increasingly embrace autonomy, slated for the journey toward autonomy in the coming years, they also promise enhanced safety, efficiency and decreased accident rates.
"Therefore, the focus lies not solely on when autonomous vehicles will hit the roads, but also on expeditiously harnessing the technology's benefits and integrating them into society," he said.
