MALAYSIAN businesses seeking to leverage digital platforms to expand sales must first achieve a sufficient level of digital literacy, Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo has emphasised, warning that those who lag behind risk being left behind in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Speaking after the 2026 Digital Business and Artificial Intelligence Conference, Gobind highlighted the critical role of technological awareness, particularly in artificial intelligence, for companies aiming to compete and grow in the global digital marketplace.
“Businesses must understand the extent to which technology can support their operations through AI-enabled platforms and other tools. That is why secure and reliable digital infrastructure is crucial. Talent and awareness are equally important to ensure technology is used effectively,” he said.
The minister noted that many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) still lack a comprehensive understanding of digital tools, limiting their ability to exploit online platforms to their fullest potential.
Gobind stressed that building a resilient digital ecosystem requires coordinated efforts between the government, the private sector, and businesses themselves to implement technological solutions holistically.
He added that nurturing digital talent and improving technological literacy are vital for ensuring more businesses can adapt to a data-driven economy and capitalise fully on opportunities in the era of artificial intelligence.
“This is not just about adopting new tools, but creating an environment where technology becomes an integral part of business growth and competitiveness,” he said, underlining the importance of strategic investment in both skills and infrastructure for sustained digital transformation. - December 5, 2025
