KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 21): Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo has been recognized in Apolitical, the world’s largest online platform for governments, for his significant contributions to Malaysia’s agenda in artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and digital transformation. His inclusion in Apolitical’s “The Government AI 100” list showcases leaders and experts from around the globe who are driving innovation and shaping AI governance frameworks in the public sector.
Gobind is highlighted as a key figure in making AI a core component of Malaysia’s public sector modernization. This includes the establishment of the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO), which aims to steer the country towards more effective AI integration. His role has involved overseeing essential policy and regulatory initiatives that foster the responsible adoption of AI, such as enhancing cybersecurity laws, modernizing personal data protection, and proposing a Data Sharing Bill to facilitate effective data utilization among government bodies.
In a recent Facebook post, Gobind expressed gratitude towards his team at the Digital Ministry, emphasizing their dedication to transforming Malaysia into an AI Nation by 2030. “Being listed in Apolitical’s ‘The Government AI 100’ list, while an honour, is an acknowledgment of the hard work of everyone at the ministry and its agencies, who have come together to accelerate Malaysia’s digital transformation for the benefit of all Malaysians,” he stated.
He continued, “I would like to thank the ministry — which is only two years old — and its dedicated teams for their tireless work in building a strong digital foundation for the country, particularly in the area of artificial intelligence. There is still much work to be done in further catalyzing our shared ambitions in the AI age, but I believe we are heading in the right direction. As we move forward, our focus now shifts to strengthening our digital transformation efforts by ensuring that artificial intelligence delivers tangible and measurable impact to citizens, businesses, and government — one that will ultimately benefit the country.”
Among the notable names on the list are Michael Kratsios, science and technology advisor to the President of the United States; Dr. Fei-Fei Li, co-director of the Human-Centered AI Institute at Stanford University; Doreen Bogdan-Martin, secretary general of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU); Evelyn Grass, head of the AI division at Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy; and Zhuang Rongwen, director of the Cyberspace Administration in China.
The initial nominee list was compiled through extensive desk research, nominations from Apolitical’s learning partners, and the broader community of over 400,000 public servants. Each nomination was evaluated based on contributions to AI governance and implementation, along with the individual’s influence and status as a public servant. The shortlist was then independently reviewed by three external AI experts.
Apolitical was founded in 2015 to enhance government effectiveness worldwide. It serves over 250,000 verified public servants in 170 countries, facilitating knowledge sharing, best practice recommendations, and solutions to common challenges.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) chief executive officer Anuar Fariz Fadzil praised Gobind’s leadership in providing clear direction for Malaysia’s digital and AI initiatives. “The recognition by Apolitical reflects the strength of Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda under Gobind’s leadership,” Anuar commented. “By putting in place the right foundations for trusted AI adoption and public-sector modernization, coupled with strong public-private partnerships, the minister has created the conditions for the ecosystem to move forward with purpose and confidence. This progress is the result of collective effort, strong governance, and a clear national vision for Malaysia to thrive as an AI-driven digital economy.”
As Malaysia continues on its path toward becoming an AI-centric nation, the recognition of its leaders in global platforms like Apolitical underscores the country’s commitment to harnessing digital technologies for the betterment of its society and economy.
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