- Malaysia urges MSMEs to adopt smart technologies and automation for efficiency.
- The Industry4WRD fund and the Smart Automation Grant provide over RM250 million in support.
- The government promotes AI chip development, advanced networks, and a digital manufacturing ecosystem.
The government is urging local businesses, especially micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), to accelerate the adoption of smart technologies and automation to improve efficiency, competitiveness, and value-added production.
MITI Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz informed Parliament that approximately 1,200 companies have engaged in initiatives related to the New Industrial Master Plan and Industry Forward 4.0 (Industry4WRD).
“The progress of this technological shift is reflected in the number of companies joining the programmes provided. Through the Industry4WRD fund, about RM150 million in investments has been approved via the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, while the Smart Automation Grant has supported around 120 companies with nearly RM100 million in grants,” Tengku Zafrul said.
He was responding an additional question from Yuneswaran Ramaraj (PH–Segamat), who inquired about the number of Malaysian companies that had embraced digital transformation, including AI-powered smart technologies and automation in manufacturing, from the last quarter of 2023 to now.
The Minister emphasized further assistance available via agencies such as SIRIM Bhd, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation, and Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Bhd, which provide financing options to facilitate automation and modernization.
Also Read: RoK Supports SMEs in Securing Stable Production Bases in Vietnam
Previously, Tengku Zafrul highlighted that the government is investing in data-center capacity, advanced networks, research and development, and capabilities in integrated-circuit design. “In line with this, Malaysia has introduced the Silicon Vision, focused on developing locally made AI chips. Strategic cooperation with ARM Ltd allows Malaysian firms to access ARM’s intellectual property, accelerating the development of domestic AI chips,” he added.
He further highlighted continuous initiatives to foster locally developed AI technologies capable of competing in international markets, stressing the government’s commitment to enhancing Malaysia’s digital and tech ecosystem for the manufacturing industry.