Government advances plan for Malay language AI development in pursuit of digital self-rule agenda
The Malaysian government is making significant strides in education and technology, with several key initiatives underway.
Expanding Early Childhood Education
As of July 31, 2023, there were 10,175 preschool classes operating across 6,349 educational institutions, involving 216,041 pupils. In a bid to further expand access to early childhood education, the Ministry of Education (MOE) aims to add 250 new preschool classes nationwide in 2025. Notably, 4,222 of these classes are in rural and remote areas, serving 79,393 pupils, accounting for over 36% of all preschool students.
Strengthening TVET and Teacher Training
The MOE is also focusing on increasing the number of early childhood teachers and further strengthening the employability of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) graduates. The employability rate for TVET graduates has risen from 99.16% (2022) to 99.91% (2024). The MOE has introduced a special pathway for Vocational College graduates in Early Childhood Education Diploma programs who achieve a CGPA of 3.50 and above to pursue a Bachelor of Teaching degree at Institut Pendidikan Guru Malaysia.
The National Education Council
The National Education Council, to be established this year, will coordinate national education policy in line with the Malaysian Education Blueprint 2025-2035 (for the MOE) and the Malaysian Higher Education Plan 2025-2035 (for the Ministry of Higher Education, MOHE). The Council will be chaired by the Prime Minister and include key ministers, including both Deputy Prime Ministers, the Chief Secretary to the Government, and the Director-General of Public Service. It will also include representatives from various ministries, academic experts, industry leaders, and community stakeholders.
The National Large Language Model (NLLM)
In the realm of technology, the Digital Ministry is developing a local AI system, the NLLM, to support national digital sovereignty and data security. The NLLM covers model development, data engineering, computing infrastructure, and data centers, and is being implemented in collaboration with industry players, universities, and local providers.
The AI Agenda and the Madani Economy
The AI agenda under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) will be executed in a planned, phased, and inclusive manner with a focus on infrastructure, digital literacy, education, and support for rural communities. This initiative aligns with the aspirations of the Madani Economy, which aims to develop a holistic and inclusive economy that benefits all Malaysians.
Developing an Islamic AI System
A proposal to develop an Islamic Artificial Intelligence System will be reviewed by the government, including relevant parties such as Jakim. This system aims to contribute to the digital transformation of Islamic knowledge and practices, in line with the nation's religious and cultural identity.
Coordinating the National Education Organization
Lastly, the MOE will coordinate the establishment of a National Education Organization in 2025, which will serve as the supreme authority coordinating national education policy. This organization is expected to support the development of the nation's industry and labor market, in line with the aspirations of the Madani Economy.
These initiatives demonstrate the Malaysian government's commitment to a comprehensive and inclusive approach to education and technology, with a focus on expanding access, strengthening employability, and promoting digital sovereignty.
Read also:
- Understanding the Concept of Obesity
- Microbiome's Impact on Emotional States, Judgement, and Mental Health Conditions
- Top Trends: TheCompilation of Up-to-date Information in the World of Data News
- Studying pediatric sleep disorders gains momentum with launch of new NHS research by a Scottish technological firm in the healthcare sector.
