Google introduces strategic initiatives at Malaysia’s National AI Office launch

Two strategic initiatives between Google and government agencies were introduced on stage today at the launch of Malaysia’s National AI Office.

As Malaysia launches its National AI Office (NAIO), Google is introducing two strategic initiatives between the tech company and government agencies that are aimed at transforming public service delivery through the power of GenAI.

Google has already committed to support Malaysia in its digital journey via several other initiatives earlier this year. This includes a US$2 billion investment in a new Google data center and Google Cloud region in the country.

The two initiatives by Google in partnership with the Malaysian government are expected to improve public service in the country. The first initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Digital and Google Cloud called AI at Work. Through a pilot program with the Ministry of Digital, the AI at Work initiative will focus on integrating Gemini for Google Workspace into the daily workflows of public officers.

This includes leveraging NotebookLM, Google’s personalized AI research assistant that will allow public officers to interact with trusted content sources, such as their legislative, policy, and research documents, to get grounded insights that empower quicker decision-making and improved responsiveness to citizen needs.

According to Serene Sia, Country Director, Malaysia and Singapore at Google Cloud, the AI at Work initiative is aligned with NAIO’s goal of promoting AI innovation through collaboration. She believes the initiative will empower public officers with secure and best-in-class AI tools to drive efficiency, innovation, and citizen-centric service delivery.

“This collaboration exemplifies Malaysia's commitment to leveraging enterprise-grade AI for national development and positions the country as a leader in the digital economy,” said Sia.

Meanwhile, the second initiative will see NAIO and Google establish an ‘AI Policy and Skilling Lab’ in Malaysia. Providing Malaysian policymakers with frameworks and best practices to help them embrace AI's transformative potential, the lab will bring together industry experts, policymakers, and other stakeholders to exchange ideas, debate emerging issues, and develop informed policy recommendations geared toward promoting the secure and responsible application of AI in Malaysia.

“The AI Policy and Skilling Lab aligns with the Malaysia government’s goals of operationalizing safe and responsible AI. By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, this initiative will establish clear guidelines for AI adoption, ensuring its benefits are realized while mitigating potential risks,” commented Su Ann Lim, Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy, Southeast Asia Cluster at Google Cloud.

Lim also commented that this will not only elevate Malaysia’s standing as a leader in the region for AI development and adoption but also attract investment and create new economic opportunities for Malaysians – especially ahead of the country’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025.

The NAIO is serves as the central authority driving Malaysia's AI agenda. It spearheads initiatives that leverage AI to strengthen the digital economy and improve public services. Additionally, it will contribute to sustainable development goals. NAIO will also facilitate Malaysia’s participation in regional AI developments, particularly in Southeast Asia, by creating AI-driven solutions that address local and regional challenges.

Apart from Google, Microsoft also announced the launch of AI for Malaysia’s Future, a new initiative aimed at equipping 800,000 Malaysians with skills in AI by the end of 2025. AIForMYFuture supports broader efforts by the Malaysian government to upskill and reskill the Malaysian workforce and ensuring a robust talent pipeline for AI-related jobs.