Google and the Malaysian government have unveiled a strategic collaboration to foster inclusive growth in the rapidly expanding digital economy.
The partnership focuses on bolstering digital competitiveness for businesses of all sizes through skilling programs, artificial intelligence (AI) innovation, and cloud-first policies, according to Bernama.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlighted that the collaboration aligned with Malaysia’s Madani Economy Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030.
Google’s commitment aims to accelerate local innovation and talent development in AI, contributing to the nation’s digital competitiveness.
The initiatives build upon Google’s 12 years of investment in Malaysia, with 2022 alone supporting over 47,900 jobs and contributed, directly and indirectly, approximately USD2.8 billion (~RM13.1 billion) to the local economy.
Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer; chief financial officer of Alphabet and Google, emphasised the collaboration’s alignment with the mission of advancing Malaysia together. The initiative includes providing free digital learning paths through the Go Cloud program, targeting the upskilling of 300,000 Malaysians by 2026.
Additionally, joint AI launchpad initiatives and support for the government’s Cloud First Policy are set to create new jobs and enhance public service delivery. The collaboration underscores Google’s commitment to Malaysia’s economic growth and global competitiveness.