PUTRAJAYA: Initiatives in Budget 2025 are set to empower the Digital Ministry to spearhead digital transformation efforts, create an efficient and secure national digital ecosystem, enhance the country's cyber-economy, and bridge the socio-economic gap among Malaysians, says Gobind Singh Deo.
Welcoming the tabling of the national budget, the Digital Minister remarked that the government's dedication to the well-being and prosperity of the people is evident through the budget allocations.
He noted that the RM1.3bil allocation for the ministry would support its mission to meet and surpass the target of having the digital economy contribute 25.5% to the gross domestic product (GDP) by next year.
"This allocation will stimulate technological innovation, including artificial intelligence (AI), and bolster the country's digital economy," he stated in a statement on Saturday (Oct 19).
Gobind mentioned that RM10mil from the budget would be allocated to establishing the National AI Office (NAIO), aiming to enhance AI technology use through collaboration with academia and industry.
Additionally, he welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement on establishing the Asean AI Safe Network, which seeks to consolidate expertise and aspects of AI security.
The minister also commended the financial provisions for other ministries, aimed at fostering and strengthening the digital ecosystem and new technologies.
Among the announcements made by Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, were the full implementation of e-invoicing from July 1, 2025, the allocation of RM50mil for AI learning at all research universities, and additional posts for the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA). – Bernama
