UK-based Apolitical, the world’s largest online platform for governments, has recognised Malaysia’s Digital Minister, Gobind Singh Deo, for his efforts in driving the nation’s artificial intelligence (AI), 5G and digital transformation agenda.
Gobind is part of Apolitical’s latest ‘The Government AI 100’ list, featuring leaders and experts worldwide who exemplify innovation and impact by shaping both AI governance frameworks and the practical use of AI in the public sector.
The list positions Gobind as being “instrumental in positioning AI as a core pillar of Malaysia’s public sector modernisation, including establishing the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO).”
He oversaw foundational policy and regulatory initiatives that enable trusted AI adoption, such as strengthening cybersecurity legislation, modernising personal data protection, and proposing a Data Sharing Bill to support responsible data use across government agencies.
Gobind paid tribute to his team in the Digital Ministry, adding that they remain committed to working towards transforming Malaysia into an AI Nation by 2030.
“Being listed in Apolitical’s ‘The Government AI 100’ list, while an honour, is also a reminder that I am not alone in the effort to build a prosperous and inclusive digital Malaysia for all. It is an acknowledgement of the hard work of everyone at the Ministry and its agencies, as well as like-minded Malaysian forward thinkers who have come together to elevate our country to greater heights,” Gobind said.
“There is still much work to be done in further catalysing our shared ambitions in the AI age, but I believe we are heading in the right direction, one that will ultimately benefit the rakyat.”
Among the others on the top 100 list are Michael Kratsios, Science and Technology Advisor to the President, White House, United States of America; Dr Fei-Fei Li, Co-Director of the Human-Centered AI Institute, Stanford University in California; Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU); Evelyn Grass, Head of the AI Division, Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, Germany; and Zhuang Rongwen, Director, Cyberspace Administration, China.
An initial list of nominees was sourced through desk research as well as nominations from Apolitical’s learning partners and the wider Apolitical community of over 400,000 public servants. Each nominee was evaluated and scored based on their contributions to the categories listed above, their influence on AI governance, implementation and adoption, and their status as a public servant. The shortlist underwent an independent review by three external AI experts.
Apolitical is a global platform founded in 2015 to help governments work better. It empowers public servants by helping them learn, share best practices, and solve common challenges. Today, Apolitical is the world’s largest online community for governments, used by over 250,000 verified public servants across 170 countries, with partnerships that extend its reach to millions more worldwide.
Meanwhile, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) Chief Executive Officer Anuar Fariz Fadzil (third left in pic) described the minister as a leader who has provided clear direction and consistency in advancing Malaysia’s digital and AI agenda, particularly in aligning policy ambition with execution across government and industry.
“The recognition by Apolitical reflects the strength of Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda under Gobind’s leadership,” Anuar said. “By putting in place the right foundations for trusted AI adoption and public-sector modernisation coupled with strong public-private partnerships, the minister has created the conditions for the ecosystem to move forward with purpose and confidence. This progress is the result of collective effort, strong governance and a clear national vision for Malaysia to thrive as an AI-driven digital economy.”
During his first tenure as a minister in 2018, Gobind pushed for lower broadband prices after recognising that connectivity was no longer a luxury but a prerequisite for participation in modern society. The resulting reduction in broadband prices in 2018 and 2019 widened access and laid foundations that continue to underpin Malaysia’s digital momentum today.
“At the time, broadband was still treated as a commercial issue,” he recalled. “But I saw it as a national one. If connectivity is expensive, you lock people out of opportunity. I am sorry that I had to ruffle a few feathers then, especially with the telcos, but I had to do what was best for the nation, our local businesses and the rakyat.”
That episode captured a defining trait of Gobind’s leadership. He is instinctively attentive to how policy decisions land on the ground, especially for ordinary Malaysians. Colleagues and industry players alike describe him as a hands-on minister who listens closely, asks practical questions and remains attuned to the lived realities of the rakyat. Whether engaging SMEs, community groups or technology leaders, his concern is consistent: That digital progress must be inclusive, accessible and fair, not abstract or elite-driven.
Source: Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC)
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