Kuala lumpur: The availability and digitisation of data are the main foundations of Malaysia's efforts to strengthen data-driven governance and realise its aspiration to become an artificial intelligence (AI) nation by 2030, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. He stated that the country's ability to develop an AI ecosystem depends on how extensively government data can be managed digitally and fully utilised.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Gobind emphasized the importance of transforming government-held data into digital form to aid the development of new technologies as Malaysia moves towards becoming an AI nation by 2030. He made these remarks during the launch of the Public Sector Data Digitisation Policy and the expansion of the Public Sector Data Sharing Platform (MyGDX). The event was also attended by Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong and the director-general of the National Digital Department, Nik Zalbiha Nik Mat.

Gobind explained that the newly formulated policy aims to ensure data across ministries, departments, and government agencies are digitised to support technological advancements. The government is also enhancing the MyGDX platform to improve public sector data-sharing processes. He highlighted that processes need to ensure data is stored and shared securely, which the MyGDX platform facilitates.

He further mentioned that the Data Sharing Act provides a legal framework for digitising and sharing data, initially involving government agencies and in collaboration with state governments. The government is also in discussions to determine which types of data can be shared with the private sector, focusing on setting priorities and determining suitable data types.

Gobind assured that the security of the MyGDX platform is a priority, with standards set by the National Digital Department (JDN). The data digitisation policy will apply to all ministries, departments, and government agencies as part of efforts to strengthen data-driven governance.