PETALING JAYA: A National Artificial Intelligence Roadmap that outlines a five-year plan is expected to be launched by the third quarter this year, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. 

According to Gobind, the national AI roadmap from 2026 to 2030 is expected to have an entire chapter on AI education, and his ministry will be speaking to different sectors after the announcement. 

“The document is ready. “However, we anticipate launching it in the third quarter of this year,” said Gobind after he launched the National AI Competition 2025 at Sunway University yesterday.

Gobind also said it is important to spread awareness about AI education, as it could foster interest in technology adoption among students. 

“So, we will look at what data can be digitised and used to strengthen our education system,” said Gobind, adding that the national AI roadmap will focus on all sectors, and different ministries will be involved for that purpose. “Different ministries will deal with different sectors, such as health and transportation, among others,” he said.

Gobind said his ministry will also get feedback from other ministries on the issues faced by the country’s sectors.

“We will devise a plan to overcome these challenges. 

“One of the key areas is to ensure that we build talent that is able to optimise the potential of technology as we move forward,” he said.

At the same time, Gobind said Malaysians should look at the use of generative AI such as ChatGPT as a form of innovation that can better their lives.

“Like it or not, technology will continue developing, and in this journey, we will see more innovations that can better our lives,” he said.

In 2021, the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry announced the National AI Roadmap 2021-2025, which outlined frameworks in agriculture, healthcare and education. 

Meanwhile, Gobind said over 2,500 students participated in the National AI Competition 2025, and more higher learning institutions should organise competitions as such. 

“This is important because this is a platform where we can see how the technology is used and how it can benefit us,” said Gobind.

“This event gives important exposure to students, and I hope after this, every student will bring this message to their friends and family members that it is time to ensure that the nation is AI-ready.”