Cognizant said the country should also transition from being an AI user to become an AI producer and innovator by developing localised models, patenting sector-specific solutions in its areas of strength and fostering more talent.

It said this could be achieved through a national AI blueprint, research and development incentives, and immigration reforms.

“Malaysia should embed ethics, inclusivity and trust in all initiatives, promoting AI literacy at every level, and ensuring transparent, human-centric adoption of AI technologies,” it said in a statement.

These suggestions were based on Cognizant’s white paper entitled “Unleashing the Power of Malaysia’s Human Capital in the AI Age”, released today.

The white paper draws upon insights from Malaysia’s leading business and policy figures to set out priorities for policymakers and executive leadership action to help the nation become a global AI leader.

Cognizant said it is committed to helping Malaysia move from aspiration to acceleration, positioning the nation to become the future global leader of AI.

Its vice-president for Asean and Greater China, Thomas Mathew, said that for Malaysia to truly lead in the AI sector, the country must move beyond being an AI user to becoming an AI producer and innovator.

“By championing ‘human in the loop’ governance, transparent data frameworks, and robust ethical literacy programmes, Malaysia can set the regional standard, proving that technological advancement and human values can thrive side by side, while also creating and exporting homegrown AI solutions,” he said.