PUTRAJAYA, Nov 13 — Malaysia has climbed seven places to 27th from 34th in the IMD World Digital and AI Ranking 2026, reflecting the country’s progress in digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) development.

Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the improvement was an encouraging recognition of collective efforts by the government, industry, academia and Malaysians to strengthen the country’s digital capabilities.

“It also demonstrates our growing readiness to compete in the global digital and AI economy as we pursue our aspiration of becoming an inclusive and sustainable AI nation by 2030.

“The latest ranking also reinforces our confidence in the strategic direction outlined under the Malaysia Digital Action Plan 2030 and the National AI Action Plan 2026–2030,” he said in a statement today.

Amid intensifying global competition, Gobind said the government’s priority was to translate Malaysia’s growing digital capabilities into broader economic opportunities, more competitive local businesses and tangible benefits for the people.

He said efforts would focus on four priorities, namely maximising economic returns from digital and AI infrastructure investments; accelerating meaningful adoption across economic sectors; strengthening talent and innovation capabilities; and enhancing digital trust, governance and regulatory coordination.

“The latest IMD ranking marks an important milestone in our digital journey. However, sustained efforts and collaboration are essential to maintaining this momentum,” he said.

Gobind said the government would build on the achievement to realise its ambition of becoming an inclusive and sustainable AI nation by 2030.

“We aim to become a nation that not only adopts technology but also develops the capabilities, innovations and businesses that will shape our future economy,” he said. — Bernama