MITI encourages MSMEs to adopt smart technology and automation, with RM150 million approved via Industry4WRD and RM100 million in grants
KUALA LUMPUR: The government is urging local firms, particularly micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, to accelerate adoption of smart technology and automation.
Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said this move aims to boost efficiency, competitiveness and value-added output.
He revealed that approximately 1,200 companies have joined programmes under the New Industrial Master Plan and Industry Forward 4.0.
“Through the Industry4WRD fund, about RM150 million in investments has been approved via Malaysian Investment Development Authority,” he told Parliament.
He added that the Smart Automation Grant has supported around 120 companies with nearly RM100 million in grants.
Tengku Zafrul was responding to a supplementary question from Yuneswaran Ramaraj regarding digital transformation adoption among Malaysian companies.
The minister said the ministry provides additional support through agencies including SIRIM Bhd, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation and Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Bhd.
These agencies offer soft financing schemes for automation and modernisation initiatives.
The government is also strengthening data-centre capacity and high-performance networks.
Malaysia has introduced Silicon Vision focused on developing locally made AI chips.
Strategic cooperation with ARM Ltd allows Malaysian firms to access the company’s intellectual property.
This partnership aims to accelerate development of domestic AI chips.
The government continues to promote home-grown AI technologies with global market potential. – Bernama
