Malaysia is strengthening AI, semiconductor and digital tech capabilities to ensure technological sovereignty amid global uncertainty, says minister

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is fortifying its domestic capabilities in artificial intelligence, semiconductors and digital technology to safeguard its technological sovereignty.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang said this move is crucial for ensuring strategic control over future economic foundations.

He stated that the ongoing conflict in West Asia highlights an increasingly uncertain global environment.

“In such circumstances, every country must prioritise national resilience, whether in terms of the economy, energy, technology or supply chain security,” he said in a statement.

Chang emphasised that a key lesson from global crises is the importance of technological self-reliance.

He argued that a nation cannot depend entirely on external technology for critical systems involving data, communications and cybersecurity.

However, he noted that rapid technological advancement also presents new challenges, particularly with AI.

In conflict situations, technologies like AI and data analytics can be misused for purposes such as spreading misinformation.

As such, he stressed that technology use must be guided by ethics, responsible governance and public awareness.

Chang also pointed out that geopolitical conflicts can disrupt the global energy market.

This underscores the importance of Malaysia expanding alternative energy sources and accelerating its sustainable energy transition.

Diversifying the country’s energy mix is vital for both environmental sustainability and long-term energy security.

“Although crises often bring uncertainty, history has shown that they can also create opportunities for innovation and renewal,” he said.

Chang concluded that Malaysia must view these developments as a reminder to strengthen national resilience through science and technology.

 The Sun Malaysia