Malaysia's Bold Budget: AI, Tech, and Green Innovations Lead the Charge for Economic Growth

October 10, 2025
Malaysia's Bold Budget: AI, Tech, and Green Innovations Lead the Charge for Economic Growth
  • The Malaysian government has announced a comprehensive budget focused on boosting technological innovation, economic growth, and social welfare, with a particular emphasis on advancing AI, digital transformation, and supporting local industries.

  • MCMC will also focus on blockchain solutions and deepfake detection technologies, supporting emerging tech development, including the creation of ILMU, Malaysia’s first AI language model.

  • Significant investments include RM200 million for SME matching grants, RM180 million for high-impact industries, and RM550 million from Khazanah and KWAP for semiconductor development, alongside incentives like venture capital tax benefits.

  • To strengthen national AI infrastructure, the government will develop a Sovereign AI Cloud through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), which will also establish an AI Transformation Centre and a Centre of Excellence in Ethics for Emerging Technologies.

  • The budget aims to make AI a national priority, supporting the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) and local universities in AI education, with a focus on semiconductors, medicine, cryptology, and broader tech ecosystems.

  • In addition, the government plans to digitize public services through expanding MyDigital ID across sectors, and introduce digital, environmental, and social reforms to improve governance and public service delivery.

  • Transport sector initiatives include procuring electric buses, upgrading airports, developing new service routes, and finalizing speed regulations for heavy vehicles to promote low-carbon transportation and improve safety.

  • Infrastructure upgrades across roads and transit facilities are also underway to support sustainable mobility and reduce road accidents.

  • The budget includes efforts to enhance safety and modernize the transportation network, aligning with Malaysia’s green technology goals.

  • Youth and sports development is allocated RM580 million for national sports events, youth training programs, and inclusive policies for individuals aged 15 to 30, with initiatives like the K-Youth Programme.

  • These efforts aim to foster national progress, support NGOs and para-athletes, and redefine youth as part of Malaysia’s broader development strategy.

  • The budget emphasizes technological innovation and economic empowerment, aligning with the theme 'Driving the Madani Economy: Empowering the People,' while maintaining fiscal discipline.

  • Cultural and tourism sectors will benefit from grants, incentives, and infrastructure improvements to promote domestic tourism, preserve heritage, and support arts entrepreneurs.

  • Efforts include promoting arts, heritage, and cultural activities, alongside initiatives to enhance healthcare facilities nationwide.

  • The government will debate the Supply Bill 2026 over eight days, focusing on policies to support economic growth and public welfare.

Summary based on 23 sources


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Sources


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