Subang jaya: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on government-linked investment companies (GLICs) to increase their investments in an effort to bridge the digital divide among Malaysians. Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said such corporate initiatives will not only support the country’s development, but will also ensure that no one is left behind in the digital transformation.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that GLICs have been major investors in the country, but their investments should also take into account prevailing issues such as the digital gap among the people. He questioned the value of discussing advancements like connectivity, 4G, 5G, and artificial intelligence if the majority of the population is being marginalized. Anwar pointed out that AI and digital transformation should also address the digital divide between city dwellers and those in poorer urban areas, villages, and remote regions.

He made these remarks during the launch of the CelcomDigi CD:NXT programme at CelcomDigi Hub in Subang Jaya. Also present at the launch were Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

Meanwhile, Anwar expressed his appreciation to CelcomDigi for implementing the CD:NXT initiative to develop professionals skilled in artificial intelligence (AI) who can lead Malaysia’s digital transformation. He highlighted that this corporate initiative by CelcomDigi will address some of the country’s needs. Anwar noted that CelcomDigi, being a large company, plays a significant role in elevating the nation’s status in telecommunications, digital, and AI fields. He acknowledged that the company has responded well to his requests, including those related to school and village adoption, as well as the provision of facilities and training.