KUALA LUMPUR: The soon to be open National AI Office (NAIO) has an overwhelming number of applicants vying for its top posts, says Gobind Singh Deo.
“A total of 1,254 applications were received from candidates interested in filling key positions such as chief executive officer, AI Policy director and AI Innovation Exchange director at NAIO, after the job vacancy had closed on Oct 13,” Digital Minister said.
The office will be launched at the end of this year and aims to position Malaysia as a key AI player in the Southeast Asian region and the broader global landscape, he said.
He added that the office will enhance the country’s AI capabilities by supporting the integration of AI into government, industry and society frameworks.
“NAIO will also lead initiatives that leverage AI to strengthen the digital economy, improve public service performance and contribute to sustainable development,” he said in a written parliamentary response on Oct 23 to Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng (BN-Tanjung Piai) who asked about Ministry’s plans to address the AI and AI-powered tools in key sectors of the country.
Gobind referred to the Government AI Readiness Index 2023 published by Oxford Insights, where Malaysia was ranked 23rd out of 193 countries for AI readiness, placing it at top 15% globally
“This impressive ranking indicates that Malaysia is on par with other advanced countries such as South Korea, Australia, and Ireland,” he said.
In addition, Gobind said that the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry has launched the National Artificial Intelligence Governance and Ethics Guidelines (AIGE) on September 20, 2024.
“This document will adopt seven key principles required for the responsible development and use of AI,” he said.
The guidelines will look at the AI ecosystem, covering users, government policymakers, agencies, organizations, institutions, designers and technology providers and suppliers. he added.
