Driving Malaysia’s AI Transformation 2026: A Historic Milestone for Malaysia’s AI Future 

On 18 November 2025, the Malaysian Association of Artificial Intelligence Technology and Innovation (MAAI), in collaboration with Boustead Holdings Berhad, brought together government representatives, industry leaders, technology innovators, investors, academics and international partners for a landmark gathering at Royale Chulan Damansara Hotel.

Originally planned for 300 participants, the event welcomed a full-house audience of more than 480 attendees. This overwhelming response reflected the growing interest in artificial intelligence and a shared belief that Malaysia is ready to strengthen its position within the regional and global AI economy.

More than a one-day event, Driving Malaysia’s AI Transformation 2026 represented an important step towards building a stronger, more connected and internationally engaged AI ecosystem for the country.

Connecting Government, Industry and Global AI Partners

The event created a platform for key stakeholders to exchange knowledge, explore partnerships and discover practical AI solutions that could support Malaysia’s economic and industrial development.

International delegates and technology companies from Zhuhai, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai and other regions joined Malaysian businesses, investors and industry representatives. Their participation demonstrated the growing potential for technology transfer, investment and cross-border collaboration between Malaysia, China and the wider ASEAN region.

Approximately 10 exhibition booths showcased developments in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Strategic partners from Malaysia and China also formalised new collaborations through Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremonies.

The programme was organised around the theme of “AI Transformation and Global Collaboration,” highlighting an essential message: Malaysia’s AI future cannot be developed in isolation. It requires cooperation across government, industry, academia, technology providers and international partners.

Malaysia’s Opportunity to Become an ASEAN AI Hub

Guest of Honour YB Lee Chean Chung, Member of Parliament for Petaling Jaya and Founder of the Hub of ASEAN Technology and Innovation (HATI), officiated the launch of the GBA Next Humanoid Expo 2026 (Malaysia Version) and the MAAI Ecosystem App.

During the event, he highlighted the increasingly important role of AI in Malaysia’s economic growth, industrial advancement and national competitiveness. He also encouraged businesses, technology companies, SMEs and industry associations to explore the incentives and support available through government agencies.

According to the event’s news coverage by Yamcha Time, initiatives announced under Malaysia’s 2026 National Budget include RM53 million for the Malaysia Digital Acceleration Grant, additional tax deductions for eligible SME training in AI and cybersecurity certification, and RM180 million for the New Industrial Master Plan Industrial Development Fund.

These initiatives create meaningful opportunities for Malaysian organisations to strengthen their AI capabilities, develop skilled talent and accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies.

YB Lee also introduced the newly established HATI base at the Petaling Jaya City Council Innovation Centre. The initiative aims to support technology transfer, cross-border collaboration and the development of high-potential deep-tech start-ups.

Strengthening Malaysia’s AI Ecosystem

Since its establishment in 2023, MAAI has remained committed to supporting Malaysia’s transition towards an AI-driven economy.

MAAI believes that meaningful AI transformation requires more than simply adopting new technology. It requires an ecosystem where businesses can access knowledge, innovators can connect with opportunities, investors can discover promising solutions and international partners can collaborate with Malaysian organisations.

The success of Driving Malaysia’s AI Transformation 2026 demonstrated what can be achieved when these different groups come together under a shared vision.

MAAI President and Organising Chairman Henry Lim Chin Poo reaffirmed the association’s commitment to accelerating Malaysia’s AI transformation. The upcoming GBA Next Humanoid Expo 2026 (Malaysia Version) is expected to further position Malaysia as an important international platform for AI innovation and collaboration.

Launching the MAAI Ecosystem App

A major highlight of the event was the launch of the MAAI Ecosystem App, created to connect members of Malaysia’s growing AI community.

The platform enables entrepreneurs, technology providers, businesses, investors, professionals and other stakeholders to participate in the MAAI ecosystem and discover new opportunities for learning and collaboration.

The MAAI Ecosystem App is available through the Google Play Store, Apple App Store and Huawei AppGallery. Members of the public may search for “MAAI” and join the community free of charge.