The Malaysian Government and Google have joined forces in a strategic collaboration aimed at fostering inclusive growth in the rapidly expanding digital economy. This partnership involves initiatives to enhance digital competitiveness, including skilling programs, investment in digital infrastructure, responsible AI innovation, and the promotion of cloud-first policies.
Google’s investments in Malaysia, spanning the past 12 years, have already contributed significantly to the local economy. In 2022 alone, the company’s products and programs supported over 47,900 jobs and contributed an estimated US$2.8 billion in economic benefits to local businesses.
As part of this collaboration, Google Cloud, CloudMile, and Trainocate are offering five digital learning paths at no cost through the Go Cloud program, with the goal of upskilling 300,000 Malaysians by 2026. These paths cover topics such as generative AI, data analytics, and cloud-based productivity tools, providing learners with digital skills badges and extended access to additional learning paths.
Additionally, Google and the Malaysian Government are exploring the establishment of an in-country Google data center to support local companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in expanding their operations regionally.
The collaboration also focuses on accelerating AI innovation to boost economic competitiveness. Joint initiatives include AI launchpad projects addressing real-world challenges in areas such as digital government services, financial inclusion, healthcare, education, and Industry 4.0. There are plans for digitization projects to enhance safety from natural disasters, promote low carbon mobility, and protect against cyber threats.
Furthermore, Google will assist the Malaysian Government in refining its Cloud First Policy, contributing policy expertise and its Secure AI Framework to align with the latest advancements in cloud computing and AI. This collaboration follows Google’s recent partnerships with Southeast Asian countries, starting with Thailand, to enhance digital competitiveness and accelerate AI innovation.
