Latest news with #MyDIGITAL
New Straits Times
02-07-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysian SMEs picking up on AI to drive growth
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's digital ambitions, as outlined in the MyDIGITAL blueprint, aim to position the country as a regional digital economy leader. However, that vision will remain aspirational if local businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), do not accelerate their adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies. As neighbours such as Indonesia, Vietnam and Singapore continue to advance toward AI-enabled futures, Malaysian SMEs are uniquely positioned to seize this moment and lead a smarter, more inclusive wave of digital transformation. A new study by Lazada, in partnership with Kantar, titled Bridging the AI Gap: Online Seller Perceptions and Adoption Trends in Southeast Asia, reveals a key challenge: Malaysian sellers recognise AI's potential but have yet to fully embrace it. The study, which surveyed 1,214 online sellers across Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, found that 69 per cent of Malaysian respondents say they are familiar with AI, but only 26 per cent have adopted AI tools, representing a significant gap between awareness and application. This gap is not merely a technology issue. It reflects a broader set of challenges shaped by uneven access to education, infrastructure constraints, generational divides and varying levels of trust and understanding around AI. Beyond that, the findings also reveal that businesses are not standing still. Many are also carefully evaluating AI opportunities that align with their specific capacities and business models. Malaysian SMEs are increasingly aware of tools ranging from generative AI for content creation and marketing to chatbots and predictive analytics. Technologies like ChatGPT have helped bring AI into mainstream business conversations. Today, it is no longer confined to niche technical circles, but has entered boardrooms, marketing meetings and daily operations. Yet, despite growing awareness, adoption remains relatively modest. Many SMEs are in the exploratory phase, testing AI tools but not yet integrating them into core workflows. Why? The report identifies several consistent barriers: perceived high costs, implementation complexity and a longstanding preference for tried-and-tested processes. While 87 per cent of Malaysian sellers acknowledge AI's long-term cost-saving potential, 64 per cent still cite cost and setup hurdles. Only half of the respondents believe AI is truly useful, well below the regional average of 61 per cent. Williams Business Consultancy Sdn Bhd director Dr Geoffrey Williams noted that SMEs tend to delay adoption because the business value of AI is not always immediately apparent. "They focus directly on their existing business model, which is often low tech. However, there are huge possibilities for SMEs in AI adoption, and sharing platforms will likely be one of the main routes to this," he told Business Times. Beyond perception, Malaysia also faces structural issues. The absence of a dedicated national AI governance framework places SMEs in a grey area, particularly under evolving data protection laws such as the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (Act 709). Universiti Kuala Lumpur Business School economic analyst Associate Professor Aimi Zulhazmi Abdul Rashid pointed out that digital adoption among SMEs was sluggish before the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the crisis served as a catalyst, pushing many businesses into "survival mode," where hybrid models combining physical and online operations became the norm. "Even with the digital economy now paramount to SMEs, however, the AI adoption is slower than projected. This is attributed to a lack of knowledge, financial resources and resistance to another change in the business," he said. Add to that infrastructural gaps and talent shortages, and it becomes clearer why some SMEs hesitate to move beyond the experimentation phase. Generational dynamics also play a role. While older business owners may be more resistant to digital disruption, younger entrepreneurs, despite being digitally savvy, often lack access to funding or the technical support needed to deploy AI meaningfully. Still, the picture is far from discouraging. Encouragingly, the Lazada-Kantar report finds that many businesses are already on the path to AI adoption, albeit at different stages of readiness. The study categorises sellers into three distinct groups based on their level of AI adoption across five core areas of business operations, which include logistics, product management, marketing, customer service, and workforce management. At the forefront are the AI Adepts. These businesses have successfully integrated AI across most or all of these five core business functions, and are already reaping tangible benefits. From enhanced operational efficiency and cost savings to smarter decision-making and improved customer engagement. They are well-positioned for sustainable growth and better equipped to scale in a competitive, digital-first market. Behind them are the AI Aspirants, which represent a significant portion of Malaysian sellers. These businesses recognise the value of AI and are keen to adopt it, but have yet to fully embed AI tools into their operations. Many are in early testing or partial implementation phases, and with the right support, training, and access to practical tools, they have strong potential to progress toward becoming AI Adepts. Finally, the study identifies the AI Agnostics. These businesses have minimal or no meaningful AI adoption across the five key operational areas. They tend to rely on traditional processes and may be more cautious or constrained by barriers such as cost concerns, lack of expertise, or uncertainty about the relevance of AI to their business model. Only 15 per cent of Malaysian sellers fall into the AI Adept category, below the regional average of 24 per cent. However, 43 per cent are identified as AI Aspirants, businesses open to AI but still in need of better tools, training, and support to move forward. This group presents a major growth opportunity. With the right guidance and accessible platforms, Malaysia can quickly expand its base of AI-ready SMEs. Platforms like Lazada are playing a vital role in closing the gap by offering embedded AI features that are easy to adopt and designed for day-to-day operations. Lazada is no longer just a digital marketplace; it is becoming a strategic AI partner that helps SMEs transition into the digital economy with minimal friction. By integrating AI directly into the seller experience, Lazada offers SMEs a low-risk, high-impact opportunity to test and scale intelligent technologies without needing large budgets or advanced technical skills. For example, Lazada IM Shop Assistant (LISA) enables sellers to provide 24/7 customer support by allowing them to program automated responses to common buyer inquiries, such as questions about delivery, returns or product details. Lazzie, a chatbot powered by generative AI technology, serves as a personal shopping assistant for buyers by offering real-time product information, recommendations and guidance during their shopping journey. Meanwhile, the Lazada Business Advisor dashboard helps sellers make smarter decisions by giving them real-time insights on pricing, promotions and inventory. It is like having a built-in guide to spot opportunities and fine-tune strategies as the business grows. For SMEs, these are not just fancy tools — they are practical stepping stones that make AI part of everyday business. Williams acknowledges this approach and stresses that AI adoption will be market-driven, and there is only a limited role for government. "Government agencies such as Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation already provide infrastructure for platforms with significant potential for gross domestic product and employment," said Williams. Aimi adds that while workshops and training sessions are available through government and trade associations, they often lack scale and sustained funding. "Many SMEs are not aware of the availability of online e-commerce platforms due to limited exposure. They may know the word 'AI' but do not understand what it is or how to apply it in their business operations," added Aimi. The stakes are real, but so is the opportunity. While Malaysia may trail some of its neighbours in AI adoption today, the ecosystem for progress is growing. Tools, platforms and support networks are becoming more accessible, and awareness is steadily rising. AI is no longer a futuristic ideal — it is a practical, powerful resource that businesses of any size can begin leveraging now to work smarter, grow faster and compete more effectively. With the right mindset and continued support from platforms like Lazada, Malaysian SMEs are not just capable of catching up — they have the potential to lead. The question is no longer whether AI will be adopted. It is how inclusively, confidently and strategically we embrace it. And for many Malaysian businesses, that journey is already well underway.
The Sun
13-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Sarawak Integrates eBantuanJKM for Efficient Welfare Aid
KUCHING: The Federal and Sarawak governments, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department (JKM), have successfully integrated their respective welfare assistance platforms via the eBantuanJKM system. Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, said the initiative aims to eliminate abuse and enhance the efficiency of welfare aid delivery. 'The system has existed for 15 years, but was only recently implemented in Sarawak. Previously, the Federal and Sarawak governments operated separate systems, which created various challenges. 'If you follow the news, there have indeed been cases where certain parties exploited weaknesses in the system,' she told reporters after officiating the launch of the eBantuanJKM system today. As of May this year, she said a total of 55,457 recipients in Sarawak had received RM123.78 million in aid under the integrated system. Earlier, in her speech at the event, Nancy also announced that JKM is currently developing a new platform, the Welfare Assistance Management System 2.0 (SPBK 2.0), which will replace eBantuanJKM by the end of 2026. 'The current system is now facing technological limitations. SPBK 2.0 is being developed as a high-impact solution, aligned with the MyDIGITAL initiative and the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint,' she said.
The Sun
13-06-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Integration of welfare platforms via eBantuanJKM enhances efficiency
KUCHING: The Federal and Sarawak governments, in collaboration with the Social Welfare Department (JKM), have successfully integrated their respective welfare assistance platforms via the eBantuanJKM system. Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri, said the initiative aims to eliminate abuse and enhance the efficiency of welfare aid delivery. 'The system has existed for 15 years, but was only recently implemented in Sarawak. Previously, the Federal and Sarawak governments operated separate systems, which created various challenges. 'If you follow the news, there have indeed been cases where certain parties exploited weaknesses in the system,' she told reporters after officiating the launch of the eBantuanJKM system today. As of May this year, she said a total of 55,457 recipients in Sarawak had received RM123.78 million in aid under the integrated system. Earlier, in her speech at the event, Nancy also announced that JKM is currently developing a new platform, the Welfare Assistance Management System 2.0 (SPBK 2.0), which will replace eBantuanJKM by the end of 2026. 'The current system is now facing technological limitations. SPBK 2.0 is being developed as a high-impact solution, aligned with the MyDIGITAL initiative and the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint,' she said.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
TalentCorp and MyDIGITAL Launch MyMahir National AI Council for Industry to Accelerate Workforce Readiness
Strategic Collaboration to Align AI Talent Development with Real-World Industry Needs PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, May 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Malaysia has launched a major initiative to strengthen its AI workforce development efforts through the formation of the MyMahir National AI Council for Industry (MyMahir–NAICI). Spearheaded by Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp), under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), and the National AI Office (NAIO) via MyDIGITAL Corporation (MyDIGITAL) under the Ministry of Digital, this Council provides a national platform to coordinate AI talent development, pilot adoption strategies, and drive multi-sector implementation. Held today, the Council's inaugural meeting marked the start of a structured, cross-agency partnership to advance Malaysia's AI readiness. The event also included the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between TalentCorp and MyDIGITAL, witnessed by YB Steven Sim Chee Keong, Minister of KESUMA and YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital. "The question is not whether AI will replace jobs, but whether we will empower Malaysians to evolve with it," said YB Steven Sim Chee Keong. "Through MyMahir–NAICI, we are forging a whole-of-nation mechanism, aligning skills with strategy, technology with talent, and policy with purpose. This Council is a commitment to ensure Malaysians are not just job-ready, but AI-ready." Reaffirming a shared commitment, YB Gobind Singh Deo added, "This is where government leadership becomes essential -- building the enabling structures that connect innovation to real-world AI implementation. While NAIO focuses on creating the demand and representing deployment, TalentCorp focuses on building the talent supply and MyMahir–NAICI completing the virtuous cycle by continuously feeding back for policy improvement." The Council formalises a three-year collaboration focused on four strategic pillars: AI Talent Development, Industry Integration, Policy and Funding Alignment, and Stakeholder Governance. TalentCorp will serve as secretariat, with NAIO guiding alignment with the national AI roadmap. Supporting this initiative are four key instruments: The MyMahir Impact Study, which identifies affected roles, emerging jobs, and future skills; The platform, which enables policy-to-action implementation; The G.I.A.T. Action Plan, targeting coordination across Government, Industry, Academia, and Training Providers; and The AI Talent Framework, covering the full skills pipeline from digital literacy to advanced AI expertise. According to the Impact Study, approximately 620,000 jobs, or 18% of formal sector roles in Malaysia, are expected to be significantly affected by AI over the next three to five years. At the same time, 60 emerging roles have been identified across AI, digital, green, and deep tech sectors. These findings will guide all Council-led activities, including the design of sector-based pilot programmes. A major feature of this collaboration is the integration of the AI Readiness Index (AIRI) into the platform, which allows companies to assess their AI preparedness, identify capability gaps, and take actionable steps toward transformation. Pilot use cases will also be validated through AI sandbox programmes, using real-world problem statements sourced directly from industry. "As the strategic think tank of KESUMA, TalentCorp's role is to link national workforce strategies with sector-driven insights and execution," said Thomas Mathew, Group CEO of TalentCorp. "MyMahir–NAICI reflects this approach - identifying talent needs, coordinating skilling efforts, and ensuring Malaysia's human capital policies stay agile, inclusive, and impactful." Adrian Marcellus, CEO of MyDIGITAL Corporation, added "NAIO's role is to coordinate national AI policies and strategies, guide ethical innovation, and ensure that AI is deployed with purpose, trust, and impact. NAIO will play a key role in shaping national workforce foresight and helping industry navigate the AI landscape." The Council's implementation and outcomes will be monitored through the newly established AI Implementation Monitoring Unit (AI-IMU). This unit will include key agencies and will track milestones, oversee delivery, and report on progress to the Ministers. It will also support the continuous improvement of sectoral workplans based on real-time feedback from Council members. Through MyMahir–NAICI, Malaysia is strengthening its AI ecosystem by aligning innovation with talent and translating data into action. The initiative supports national priorities including the Madani Economy, NIMP 2030, and the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint. For more information, visit: View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Time Business News
15-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
How Strategic SEO is Driving Sustainable Business Growth in Malaysia
In the era of digital transformation, visibility holds paramount importance. For companies aiming to increase their market presence, attract quality leads, and build credibility within their sector, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) has emerged as a crucial element of digital strategy. In Malaysia, characterized by extensive internet usage and a mobile-first approach, SEO transcends mere marketing; it serves as a catalyst for growth. This article examines the ways in which SEO is transforming the business environment in Malaysia, the essential elements of successful SEO campaigns, and the long-term advantages for businesses that prioritize SEO investment. The Digital Evolution of the Malaysian Market The digital economy in Malaysia is experiencing significant growth, bolstered by government programs such as My DIGITAL and enhanced broadband accessibility across the country. With over 30 million internet users and a penetration rate of 96.8% as of 2023, Malaysians are increasingly engaging online, particularly through mobile devices. This transition indicates that consumers are now researching products, comparing services, and making purchasing decisions in the digital realm. For businesses of all sizes, being visible at the right moment on search engines like Google has become a necessity rather than an option. This is where the importance of SEO becomes paramount. What is SEO and Why Does It Matter for Malaysian Businesses? Search Engine Optimization (SEO) involves enhancing a website and its content to increase its visibility in organic search results that are not paid for. When executed effectively, SEO guarantees that your website ranks among the top results when potential customers search for products or services pertinent to your business. In Malaysia, the competition for online visibility is intensifying across various sectors. From a small boutique in Penang to a fintech firm in Kuala Lumpur, businesses are vying for attention. Collaborating with a reputable SEO agency in Malaysia provides a sustainable and economical approach to maintain visibility, relevance, and competitiveness. Core Components of an Effective SEO Strategy For any Malaysian business to succeed in search, their SEO efforts must be strategic, data-informed, and comprehensive. Below are the key pillars that drive successful SEO campaigns: Understanding how Malaysians search online is crucial. Effective keyword research involves identifying phrases that potential customers use, incorporating local language preferences (including Bahasa Malaysia and English), and mapping them to relevant pages on your website. Example: Instead of targeting a generic term like 'furniture,' a business in Johor Bahru might see better results with 'custom-made furniture Johor Bahru.' On-page SEO involves optimizing individual web pages to rank higher and earn more relevant traffic. This includes: Crafting SEO-friendly titles and meta descriptions Using header tags for content structure Optimizing images for speed and accessibility Ensuring keyword placement is natural and contextually relevant Search engines prioritize websites that are fast, secure, and easy to navigate. Technical SEO ensures your website is built for both users and crawlers by: Improving page speed Using HTTPS encryption Fixing crawl errors and broken links Implementing schema markup (structured data) Content remains the cornerstone of SEO. Informative, engaging, and keyword-optimized content helps position businesses as authorities in their field. Blog posts, how-to guides, industry news, and case studies all help in: Building trust with your audience Generating backlinks Keeping visitors on-site longer (reducing bounce rates) Backlinks from other websites to yours signal authority and trustworthiness to search engines. The more high-quality backlinks a website has, the more likely it is to rank higher. Effective link-building strategies include: Guest posting Local business listings Press releases Strategic partnerships and collaborations For brick-and-mortar businesses, local SEO is essential. It helps businesses appear in 'near me' searches and Google Maps results. Tactics include: Creating and optimizing a Google Business Profile Managing online reviews Using location-based keywords Submitting to local directories Benefits of SEO for Malaysian Businesses Companies throughout Malaysia are experiencing tangible advantages from their investment in professional SEO services. These advantages encompass: Increased Organic Traffic : SEO helps bring in consistent, targeted traffic without the cost of paid ads. : SEO helps bring in consistent, targeted traffic without the cost of paid ads. Higher Conversion Rates : Traffic from search engines tends to convert better than other sources because it reflects active user intent. : Traffic from search engines tends to convert better than other sources because it reflects active user intent. Stronger Brand Credibility : Ranking on the first page of Google gives users confidence in your business. : Ranking on the first page of Google gives users confidence in your business. Improved User Experience : Many SEO improvements like faster pages and better navigation also benefit the customer experience. : Many SEO improvements like faster pages and better navigation also benefit the customer experience. Long-Term ROI: Unlike paid advertising, the benefits of SEO compound over time and continue to deliver returns with ongoing optimization. Why Many Businesses Choose to Work with an SEO Agency in Malaysia While some companies attempt to manage SEO in-house, the technical nature of modern SEO often requires the expertise of a dedicated agency. A professional SEO agency in Malaysia offers: Access to advanced SEO tools and analytics Local market knowledge and keyword insights A team of specialists in content, technical SEO, and link building Ongoing strategy development and campaign management Businesses benefit not just from higher rankings, but also from clearer insights into customer behavior, improved website performance, and stronger brand positioning. Future Outlook: SEO in Malaysia Beyond 2025 SEO tactics will need to change as search algorithms advance and consumer behaviour keeps moving towards voice and mobile searches. Predictive search, video optimisation, and AI-powered tools are already changing the way content is produced and ranked. Companies in Malaysia will be better positioned to rule their niche in the years to come if they stay ahead of these trends by making early and ongoing investments in SEO. Conclusion SEO is an essential part of a successful digital strategy, not just a fad. Adopting SEO for Malaysian businesses entails utilising the internet's full potential to draw in, interact with, and convert clients. The correct SEO approach can have a quantifiable impact, regardless of whether you're a large company seeking to grow your digital footprint or a startup trying to raise awareness. SEO is not merely a choice in a market that is becoming more and more competitive by the day; it is a need. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
