The Digital age is upon us and Malaysia, like many other nations around the world, has plans set in motion to adapt to this change.
So what are some of the initiatives aimed to change Malaysia to become a digitally-driven, high income nation and a regional leader of the digital economy?
Here’s a quick overview:
1. Government sector will finally go digital
Gone will be the days of us queuing up in long lines, spending hours and hours of waiting for our turn to settle our affairs, as the government sector plans to be in the digital space by 2022.
This of course will be a win-win for us citizens, the government, and environment as there will be less physical paperwork hence increasing the efficiency.
Here are some of the plans towards digitalisation:
- Implementing a cashless system for payments in government agencies.
- 80% of ministries and agencies of the public sectors will also be utilizing cloud storage.
- Upskill civil servants with digital literacy by 2025 so they can work better in the digital space
- Having a Chief Information Officer and Digital Accelerator in every ministry to increase the adoption of technology
2. It’ll create 500,000 jobs for the rakyat
With efforts being done to the MyDigital Blueprint a reality, about 70 billion ringgit will be invested into digital investments. The Minister of Economy stated that MyDigital will be the core to make Malaysia a regional e-commerce powerhouse and technological hub.
The objective of this initiative is to nurture 5,000 and attract up to five “unicorn” companies, based on the data provided by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, are start-ups with a valuation of US$1 billion (or about RM4.04 billion).
In the long run, MyDigital is expected to create 500,000 jobs in the digital economy and contribute 22.6% to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP).
3. More focus on digitising businesses in Malaysia
The availability of the internet proves to be a vital component for e-commerce with the government looking to foster 875,000 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and micro-enterprises to use e-commerce.
Through the Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), these businesses can have the right tools, platforms, and skills to be successful in their digital transformation journey.
Here are some digital initiatives that have been kickstarted via PENJANA:
4. Supporting the rakyat with 5G connections and programmes
One of the many things we Malaysians can look forward to, with this digital transformation is widespread connectivity and availability for all Malaysian households by 2025, the best part is, 5G connections for all.
That also means you can play video games without lag and stream movies with lightning-fast internet speed.
The government has also supported vulnerable groups such as the B40 and women to ensure equal access and opportunity to participate in the digital economy. Among the related initiatives are eRezeki and Empowering Women in Cyber Risk Management Programme.
5. Students across Malaysia will have access to online learning
Since the pandemic hit, the need for online learning reached its peak. However, some find it difficult as they lived in rural areas and access to the internet is scarce.
From 2021-2025, the government will focus on ensuring all schools have access to internet connectivity.
Other actions include:
- Encourage textbook and workbook publishers to explore digitalisation and move to e-book and interactive formats
- All students in Malaysia to have access to online learning
With the world wide web easily accessible, students from all over the nation will have access to online teaching platforms such as My Device and My Digital Teacher Programme.
How will this be a reality?
The MyDigital initiative will take at an estimate of ten years, spanning over three phases. The government targets its full implementation by 2030 and has identified six strategic thrusts for the blueprint to harbor digital change within public sectors, promoting economic competitiveness. In addition, developing digital infrastructure and digitally skilled workforce while creating an inclusive, secure and ethical digital environment.
The MyDigital blueprint will have in 3 phases:
- Phase 1 (2021 to 2022) – To accelerate and strengthen the digital foundation needed for the quick and smooth roll-outs of Phase 2 and Phase 3.
- Phase 2 (2023-2025) – To drive digital transformation and inclusion across the digital economy, emphasising participation within the rakyat and all levels of businesses.
- Phase 3 (2026-2030) – To convert Malaysia into a regional market producer for digital products and digital solution providers.
If you’re interested to read the full blueprint, click here.
Also read: 5 Ways The MCO Has Proven That M’sians Are More Than Ready To Enter Into A Digital Era
