Nation’s digital push bolstering innovation, economic resilience – Experts weigh in

THE government’s push to strengthen its digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystem is positioning the country as a potential regional digital hub, say academics and policy experts, who argue the move is crucial for boosting competitiveness and preparing the workforce for a tech-driven future.

Associate Professor Dr Abdul Hadi Abd Rahman, Deputy Dean (Research and Innovation) at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Faculty of Information Science and Technology, said the government’s digital agenda has received strong support from major industry players, increasing demand for local talent and accelerating tech skill development.

“However, the success of the digital agenda depends greatly on the level of awareness and acceptance of technology among civil servants, especially in terms of adoption and adaptation of digital systems in the government sector,” Bernama cited him saying.

Abdul Hadi also noted that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) stand to benefit from locally tailored tech solutions, which will enhance Malaysia’s innovation ecosystem and create a more inclusive digital economy.

“This approach not only strengthens the domestic innovation ecosystem, but also helps increase the competitiveness of the country's digital economy in a more inclusive and comprehensive manner,” he said.

During a special session of the Dewan Rakyat addressing recent US tariff issues, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed the government's focus on advanced technology adoption to improve Malaysia’s economic standing and streamline business processes.

Highlighting structural initiatives, Abdul Hadi pointed to the creation of the Faculty of Artificial Intelligence at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and a post-quantum technology centre at Universiti Putra Malaysia as foundational moves.

“This measure is also strengthened through special allocations to research universities, which play an important role in strengthening the research and innovation ecosystem,” he said.

He added that UKM has contributed to the national digitalisation drive through its Nadi Utama Sintesis Aksara (NUSA) initiative, which harnesses AI to elevate the Malay language as a vehicle for knowledge.

“This initiative empowers the Malay language as a language of knowledge through artificial intelligence (AI) technology, thereby supporting the country’s digital agenda, which is grounded in culture and national identity,” he said.

Meanwhile, Professor Dr Wan Zuhainis Saad, Chairperson of the Council of Public Higher Education Institutions’ Centres for Teaching and Learning, said digital and tech skills must be cultivated continuously to keep pace with rapid advancements in AI, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

“Flexible education provides opportunities for students, including those in rural areas, to access high-quality courses in the field of technology and AI,” she said.

She highlighted the value of alternative learning pathways like personalised modules, short courses, unbundling, and micro-credentials in upskilling working adults and narrowing generational skill gaps.

“It is also important in reducing the skills gap between generations and supporting the development of a workforce that is ready for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0),” she said.

Wan Zuhainis also urged greater application of digital tools in green energy and sustainability, aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and called for continued investment in STEAM education to ensure a future-ready, tech-literate workforce. - May 6, 2025