Malaysia will ensure a proper ecosystem and regulatory framework is in place before adopting autonomous vehicles and related technologies, says Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo (pic).
He said the government is working with the Road Transport Department and other stakeholders to draft rules that will govern not only driverless cars, but also emerging technologies such as drones and robotics.
“If vehicles are eventually replaced by autonomous vehicles with no drivers, we want to make sure that the process has been carefully thought through and that the ecosystem is ready before adoption,” he said during the Asean Artificial Intelligence Business Summit 2025 yesterday.
Gobind said the regulatory effort would go beyond traditional vehicles, with future frameworks expected to cover robots, drones and other autonomous objects that could operate in public spaces.
“Moving ahead, we are going to see more autonomous vehicle activity. This will expand beyond just cars – it will move to areas such as robotics. So you’re going to see robots walking around, you’re going to see drones and other such technologies,” he said.
He said Malaysia is also stepping up efforts to build a robust artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem, with Budget 2026 expected to feature new allocations and initiatives aimed at turning the country into an “AI nation”.
The government, he added, is focused on creating the right regulatory framework, strengthening GovTech initiatives and expanding public-private partnerships to accelerate AI adoption.
He noted that the government’s commitment to AI would be further reflected in Budget 2026, which will be tabled on Oct 10.
Gobind said Malaysia’s efforts were reinforced by South-East Asia’s rapid digital expansion, with the region expected to add over US$1 trillion (RM4.2 trillion)to its combined GDP by 2030.
He highlighted the Asean Guide on AI Governance and Ethics, which provides a common foundation built on fairness, transparency and accountability.
At the same time, he said Malaysia must close the AI divide by investing in digital talent.
On businesses, Gobind stressed that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) must move beyond merely being aware of AI and begin adopting solutions that can strengthen their competitiveness.
“Being aware is one thing, but adopting is another. Sometimes there is a tendency to take a step back, to wait and see. But the reality is that your competitors are already using these technologies and moving ahead faster than you expected,” he said.
He added that platforms such as the upcoming Smart City Expo were designed to help businesses, including SMEs, and to see first-hand how AI and digital technologies could transform industries.
“Once you see how technology impacts your industry, you will also be able to meet people who can build systems specifically designed to help your business,” he said.
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Dieser Artikel ist neu veröffentlicht von / This article is republished from: The Star, 13.09.2025
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