AI in Malaysia: Great potential but limited by slow implementation - Expert

SHAH ALAM - Malaysia's adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) reveals a landscape filled with potential yet marred by slow uptake compared to other Southeast Asian nations.

According to Dr Afnizanfaizal Abdullah, an AI expert from the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology & Innovation (MRANTI), Malaysia ranks among the top 30 countries in the region for AI governance.

This signalled a promising environment fostered by governmental openness to innovation.

However, actual AI adoption rates in the country are relatively modest.

"Malaysia is in the top 30 in Southeast Asia in terms of AI governance due to strong government interest in AI and its openness to integrating AI in various processes," Afnizanfaizal told Sinar Daily during an interview session recently.

Despite this, he pointed out that actual implementation is largely confined to startups and corporate initiatives, rather than broad-based national application.

He identified three critical elements essential for advancing AI adoption in Malaysia: data availability, infrastructure, and talent.

Addressing the issue of data, Afnizanfaizal highlighted the inconsistencies that hamper effective AI applications.

"For instance, in healthcare, metrics often rely on personal devices that may not provide uniform data, which is crucial for deploying AI technologies efficiently," he said.

Infrastructure development is another vital component, and here, Malaysia showed promise, attracting significant investments in data centres.

"Our AI infrastructure can utilise both cloud and edge computing.

"The readiness to store and process data efficiently is fundamental for embracing AI," he said.

However, talent development presented a significant challenge.

While Malaysia produced a considerable number of graduates annually, there is a noticeable mismatch between the skills these graduates possess and what the industry demands.

"We generate a lot of talent, but not necessarily the right kind for AI development.

"There's a need to cultivate high-skilled workers capable of designing AI solutions, not just operating them," Afnizanfaizal added.

Looking forward, he believes that Malaysian businesses and policymakers must carefully assess the potential benefits of AI, especially in sectors like agriculture, where AI can dramatically increase productivity, improve product quality, and reduce waste.

"The government should optimise AI applications to enhance economic output across various sectors, including manufacturing and the oil and gas industry," he suggested.

He also pointed out the transformative potential of AI, likening its impact to the revolution brought about by computers.

"AI has the capacity to automate and optimise, making processes more efficient.

"Embracing AI is not just about adopting new technology - it's about revolutionising how we work and increasing productivity across the board," Afnizanfaizal added, emphasising the need for Malaysia to fully leverage AI to maintain its competitive edge on the global stage.