The Malaysian government and Google have joined forces in a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing inclusive growth opportunities in Malaysia’s digital economy. The initiatives, spanning skilling programs, digital infrastructure investment, AI innovation, and cloud-first policies, underscore Google’s commitment to advancing Malaysia’s digital competitiveness, aligning with the nation’s economic frameworks.
17 November 2023 – In a strategic collaboration between the Malaysian government and Google, a concerted effort has been launched to foster inclusive growth opportunities within the burgeoning digital economy. The collaborative initiatives, spanning skilling programs, digital infrastructure investment, responsible artificial intelligence (AI) innovation, and cloud-first policies, aim to bolster the digital competitiveness of businesses across all sizes, contributing to Malaysia’s digital advancement.
Google’s commitment to accelerating local innovation and talent development in the AI domain aligns with Malaysia’s Madani Economy Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), as highlighted by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The collaboration builds upon Google’s 12-year-long investments in Malaysia, with the initiatives set to enhance the nation’s digital competitiveness and contribute to economic growth.
President and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google, Ruth Porat, emphasized the partnership’s alignment with Google’s local mission of “Advancing Malaysia Together” and the government’s goal to create a supportive innovation ecosystem with meaningful and equitable job opportunities.
Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz welcomed Google’s contributions, particularly through programs supporting skilled talent and scaling small businesses, emphasizing their positive impact on Malaysia’s global competitiveness and attractiveness to foreign investors.
As part of the collaboration, Google Cloud, CloudMile, and Trainocate, through the Go Cloud program, will provide inclusive skilling opportunities for 300,000 Malaysians by 2026. The digital learning paths, consisting of online courses covering generative AI, data analytics, and cloud-based productivity tools, aim to equip individuals from diverse backgrounds with valuable digital skills. Completion of these learning paths will grant participants digital skills badges and extended access to additional learning paths.
Furthermore, joint AI launchpad initiatives between the government and Google Cloud will be initiated, focusing on job creation, improved public service delivery, and enabling local companies to tap into global markets. Google will also support the government in refining its Cloud First Policy for Malaysia, contributing policy expertise and its Secure AI Framework to incorporate the latest advancements in cloud computing and AI.
These collaborative efforts signify a substantial stride towards a digitally inclusive and competitive Malaysia, with a focus on nurturing local talent and fostering innovation. – ref: FMT
