Cyberjaya, 9 July 2026 – As artificial intelligence and quantum computing rapidly reshape economies, industries and national security worldwide, Malaysia is taking a strategic step to strengthen its readiness for the next era of digital transformation.

The Government of Malaysia, represented by the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IBM Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. to explore strategic collaboration in advancing Malaysia’s Sovereign AI and quantum computing aspirations.

The MoU, witnessed by the Prime Minister, YAB Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, at the National Cybersecurity Summit 2026, reflects a shared commitment to explore the establishment of the National Quantum and Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence (NQAIC) as a national platform to accelerate innovation, strengthen national capabilities and prepare Malaysia for the opportunities and challenges presented by frontier technologies.

The proposed collaboration supports Malaysia’s long-term aspiration to build trusted capabilities in artificial intelligence and quantum technologies that are secure, resilient and aligned with national interests. It also reinforces the country’s commitment to developing a future-ready digital ecosystem that promotes innovation, nurtures local talent, strengthens research and supports sustainable economic growth.

The envisioned NQAIC will serve as a collaborative platform connecting government, academia, industry and strategic partners to facilitate knowledge exchange, capability development, research collaboration and innovation in artificial intelligence and quantum technologies. The initiative is intended to complement Malaysia’s broader efforts to strengthen digital resilience, technological competitiveness, and responsible adoption of emerging technologies.

To support this shared vision, the MoU outlines three (3) broad areas of collaboration:

i. Ecosystem Development: The parties will collaborate to explore the establishment of the National Quantum and Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence by fostering collaboration across government, academia, industry, and strategic partners. This includes supporting initiatives that strengthen Malaysia’s innovation ecosystem and encourage responsible development and adoption of artificial intelligence and quantum technologies.

ii. Trusted Governance and Security: The collaboration will support the development of trusted, secure, and resilient approaches to artificial intelligence and quantum technologies that are aligned with Malaysia’s national priorities. It also reflects a shared commitment to strengthening digital resilience and promoting responsible governance as these technologies continue to evolve.

iii. Innovation, Capability and Talent Development: The parties will explore opportunities to strengthen national capabilities through knowledge sharing, technical collaboration, research, innovation and talent development, while leveraging global expertise and best practices to support Malaysia’s long-term digital transformation.

The collaboration is guided by the principles of technology neutrality, trusted governance, responsible innovation and openness to strategic partnerships. It reflects Malaysia’s commitment to building capabilities that support national resilience while enabling innovation that benefits government, industry and society.

As artificial intelligence and quantum technologies become increasingly important drivers of future economic growth and strategic competitiveness, Malaysia remains committed to developing an ecosystem that balances innovation with trust, security and inclusivity.

Through this strategic partnership, NACSA, MCMC and IBM are laying the foundation for Malaysia to strengthen its capabilities in frontier technologies, enhance its digital resilience, and reinforce its position as a trusted regional leader in Sovereign AI, quantum innovation, and secure digital infrastructure.