Digital transformation – a key driver of Malaysia’s competitiveness

Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (13MP) is set to become a key enabler of long-term national competitiveness, driving productivity, inclusivity, and structural reform, according to Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.

Malaysian Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan (Photo: thevibes.com)
Malaysian Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan (Photo: thevibes.com)

Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (13MP) is set to become a key enabler of long-term national competitiveness, driving productivity, inclusivity, and structural reform, according to Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan.

Speaking at the recent launch of the World Bank’s latest Malaysia Economic Monitor report, Amir said the strategic adoption of government technology (GovTech) and digital innovation will be critical in delivering more effective public services, while reinforcing macroeconomic stability.

He said as the country navigates the increasing complexity of today’s economic landscape, it is clear that Malaysia must remain agile in shaping timely, relevant, and coherent policy responses.

The 31st edition of the ‘Malaysia Economic Monitor’, titled From Bytes to Benefits: Digital Transformation as a Catalyst for Public Sector Productivity, highlights the government’s digital ambitions under 13MP and the need to harness innovation for social and economic progress.

Amir Hamzah stressed that digitalisation must serve broader goals beyond economic growth.

He said that under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan, digital transformation is not just an economic agenda, but a driver of social progress. By expanding access, strengthening digital skills, and harnessing technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the country can reduce inequality, uplift living standards and create opportunities for all Malaysians.

He added that safeguarding public trust through strong cybersecurity and responsible data governance is essential to ensure that digital benefits are widely and equitably shared./.

VNA

See more

Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong (R) welcomes Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul (Photo: thestar.com)

Thailand, Singapore enhance bilateral collaboration

The Thai and Singaporean PMs witnessed the signing of several memoranda of understanding (MoUs), notably an MoU on rice trade cooperation between the two governments, under which Thailand agreed to sell Singapore up to 100,000 tonnes of rice annually.

Indonesia to add 30 urban trains in Jakarta

Indonesia to add 30 urban trains in Jakarta

The addition of new trains is expected to help Indonesia ease traffic congestion, improve the quality of public transport services, and promote sustainable socio-economic development in Indonesia’s most densely populated urban area.

Illustrative image (Photo: Antara)

Indonesia to end diesel imports by 2026

Indonesian Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia has reported to President Prabowo Subianto that Indonesia is on track to stop importing diesel fuel by early 2026, marking a major milestone in national energy independence.

Director General of the Metal, Machinery, Transportation Equipment, and Electronics (ILMATE) Industry at the Ministry of Industry Setia Diarta during the Opening of GIIAS Makassar on November 5. (Photo: ANTARA)

Indonesia to downstream EV batteries in two years

Indonesia is projecting the downstreaming of electric vehicle (EV) batteries for motorcycles and cars within the next two years, according to Director General of the Metal, Machinery, Transportation Equipment, and Electronics (ILMATE) Industry at the Ministry of Industry Setia Diarta.

At the launch of the programme. (Photo: nationthailand.com)

Thailand launches programme to reduce healthcare costs for citizens

Under the new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), private hospitals in Thailand must provide complete and accurate prescriptions listing drug names and usage details. This transparency allows patients to choose whether to buy their medicines directly from the hospital or from registered pharmacies outside.

Illustrative photo (Photo: bangkokpost.com)

Thailand delivers tepid rice export forecasts for 2026

Thailand maintains its export target for next year at 7.5 million tonnes, including 3.5 million tonnes of white rice, 1.7 million tonnes of hom mali rice, 1.4 million tonnes of parboiled rice, 600,000 tonnes of Thai fragrant rice and 300,000 tonnes of sticky rice.

ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn (Photo: Bernama)

ASEAN Secretary-General: Higher education will shape the region’s future

The ASEAN chief revealed that the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Strategic Plan designates education as a driver for equity and sustainable development. Its agenda calls for enhancing access to quality education, promoting lifelong learning, and integrating green skills into curricula. In short, academic purpose serves societal and community purpose.

Thailand aims for 129 gold medals at 33rd SEA Games

Thailand aims for 129 gold medals at 33rd SEA Games

At the 32nd SEA Games held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, from May 5–17, 2023, Thailand ranked second overall with 108 gold, 96 silver, and 108 bronze medals. Vietnam topped the standings with 136 gold, 105 silver, and 114 bronze medals.