GOBIND: GOVT CONSIDERING A.I. AND BIG DATA POLICY

Move crucial to develop capabilities to ensure Malaysia capitalises on opportunities

THE government is looking at introducing a policy on artificial intelligence (AI) and big data soon.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the move was crucial to develop the capabilities of AI and data to ensure industry, the government and the people could capitalise on the opportunities offered.

“Malaysia, located in the heart

of Southeast Asia, is well-positioned to be the leader in research and development of ethics in AI and big data,” he said after opening the “Next Big Tech Asia 2019” conference and exhibition here yesterday.

According to Gobind, the Malaysian Digital Economy Corp (MDEC) was formulating an AI and data paper, which is expected to be presented to the government later this year.

“We are not bound by any timeframe. But once MDEC is done with the framework, I strongly advocate the development to come up with a national policy on AI and big data."

According to a recent study by the International Data Corp, the big data and analytical software market in Malaysia is expected to reach RM595 million by 2021.

Gobind stressed that three key components — talent, trust and ethics — were required to develop a proper AI and data ecosystem.

“There is a consensus among governments, industry leaders and recruitment firms worldwide that there is a global shortage of AI talent. Malaysia, like the rest of the world, needs to develop deeper talent to further grow our AI ecosystem,” he said.

Gobind added that the growth of AI would require big data capabilities and what has been categorised as privacy preservation technologies which would be critical for the continued capitalisation of data.

“Increasingly, we need privacy solutions that can enable data integration across organisational boundaries.

“We also need more secure solutions, especially new methods of encrypting data on the public cloud,” he added.

With the growing use of AI in the economy and workforce, Gobind believes that it is crucial to proactively address the national cybersecurity risks holistically and adequately.

Meanwhile, on the potential increase in postal charges, Gobind said he would announce the matter soon.

“We are looking into the matter. After receiving the report (on potential increase), I will hold a press conference,” he added.

Earlier, it was reported in the local media about a possible increase in postal charges that would benefit Pos Malaysia Bhd.

The last time postal rates were raised was in 2010.