The government is moving ahead with plans to develop a national artificial intelligence (AI) model that operates fully in Bahasa Malaysia, aimed at strengthening digital sovereignty, improving data security, and reducing reliance on foreign providers. Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong announced the initiative yesterday during the ministry’s winding-up debate on the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) in Dewan Negara.
Known as the National Large Language Model (NLLM), the project is being developed in collaboration with local industry players, universities, and technology providers. It will cover several areas including model development, data engineering, computing infrastructure, and the establishment of local data centres. Wilson said the AI agenda would be rolled out in phases with emphasis on infrastructure, digital literacy, education, and support for rural communities.
He added that the government is also reviewing a proposal to develop an Islamic Artificial Intelligence System with agencies such as the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim). The system is intended to ensure that Malaysia’s AI ecosystem advances in line with cultural and ethical values.
Despite sharing a common focus on Bahasa Malaysia as the primary language, it should be noted that NLLM’s development is separate from YTL’s Ilmu model. The latter, which was first introduced in December last year, recently became available through the ILMUchat chatbot on the newly launched Ryt Bank digital banking platform.
(Source: The Edge Malaysia)
