Artificial intelligence (AI) is projected to contribute between RM13 billion and RM20 billion annually to Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030, signalling its growing role as a key economic driver.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said AI could also boost Malaysia’s GDP growth by 0.8 to 1.2 percentage points each year.
He noted that the digital economy, increasingly powered by AI, already contributes over 23% to GDP, generating more than RM450 billion in economic value last year.
“These figures reflect a structural shift where AI is no longer peripheral, but central to productivity, competitiveness and national growth,” he said.
Gobind said the ministry will soon roll out the Government Innovation Initiative (GII), a platform designed to open up real public sector challenges for innovators, researchers and youth to develop solutions using emerging technologies, including AI.
He said the initiative would enable ideas to be tested, refined and scaled within a structured framework, with institutions such as UPM playing a key role in supporting research and talent development.
Gobind also stressed that AI’s long-term impact depends on how it is shaped and applied, particularly by the younger generation.
“The future of AI will not be determined by technology alone, but by the values embedded within it,” he said, adding that platforms like ICYouth are vital in balancing innovation with responsibility.
