Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia and China have reached an agreement to enhance their digital economies and strengthen collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI) technology. This development follows the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between Malaysia and China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MoUs were exchanged by Malaysia’s Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo and NDRC Chairman Zheng Shanjie. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Digital Ministry stated that the MoU concerning the digital economy involves cooperation in policy coordination, regulatory alignment, industrial digital transformation, digital technology innovation, and talent development.
The agreement will also facilitate collaboration on specific projects to promote cooperation between cities and enterprises. A Joint Working Group on Digital Economy is set to be established, comprising representatives from China’s National Data Administration and Malaysia’s Ministry of Digital.
Regarding the MoU on AI, both countries aim to strengthen AI technology through technical exchange programs and explore collaboration on AI infrastructure development, including building datasets. They will also exchange ethical AI guidelines and share experiences to enhance AI applications for economic and social development, while addressing AI security risks and improving public literacy in AI knowledge and professional skills.
Additionally, the Digital Ministry announced a Letter of Intent (LOI) signed between Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and China’s Zhejiang University. This collaboration will focus on digital transformation, AI, and smart city development.
Zhejiang University is noted for its contributions to cultivating future pioneers through the Zhejiang Model. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo emphasized that the MoUs and LOI mark significant progress in Malaysia’s digital transformation efforts, aligning with the aspirations of the Prime Minister and the MADANI Government.
Gobind highlighted the importance of practical collaborations in digital infrastructure, AI, technological innovation, data development, digital industry growth, and talent exchange. He stressed the need for Malaysia’s digital ecosystem to be fully equipped in infrastructure, cybersecurity, and talent to maximize the potential of the digital economy.
As the ASEAN Chair this year, Malaysia, in collaboration with NDRC and Zhejiang University, will support initiatives and conversations on digital advancements, including hosting the inaugural Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur in September.