Global Development Centre hub strengthens national digital ecosystem - PM

THE launch of Ant International’s Global Development Centre in Malaysia marks an important step forward for the country’s digital economy, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim describing it as a new chapter in strengthening the national technology ecosystem.

He said the decision by the global fintech company to establish its hub in Malaysia reflects international confidence in the country’s stability, policy clarity and long-term development direction, as well as the commitment of its leadership, civil service, private sector and young professionals.

“Ant International has chosen Malaysia as the hub for its Global Development Centre, the first fintech company of its kind to do so here.

“Thank you very much, there may be others, many more, but they are regional hubs. Here, Ant International is making it a global centre, extraordinary,” he said at the launch ceremony.”

Anwar said the presence of such investments must be translated into meaningful outcomes for the rakyat, including high-quality employment opportunities, stronger local talent development, higher productivity and broader access to financial services.

He added that closer collaboration between technology companies, universities and research institutions is essential to ensure Malaysia develops a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of the rapidly expanding digital economy.

According to him, higher education institutions must also remain agile in adapting curricula to technological change, while continuing to emphasise values, ethics and integrity in the development of future talent.

The Prime Minister also noted that artificial intelligence is set to transform key areas such as trade, credit assessment, risk management and cross-border financial transactions, but stressed that its deployment must be underpinned by strong governance frameworks.

He said the government is in the process of finalising an Artificial Intelligence Governance Bill, which will complement existing legislation including cybersecurity laws and data protection regulations.

He added that the government would seek input from Ant International in refining the proposed legislation, drawing on the company’s experience operating across multiple jurisdictions.

Anwar further emphasised that digital trust must form the foundation of Malaysia’s digital economy, with all industry players responsible for safeguarding users’ funds and data and ensuring fairness in decision-making processes. - July 1, 2026