The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the rapid advancement of disruptive technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and blockchain, have shown the potential to significantly transform the economic landscape around the world.

Research has shown that AI technology can increase GDP by up to 26% in the next decade. Digitalisation will also help achieve sustainable growth in the long term, in line with the Shared Prosperity Vision 2030.

The National 4IR Policy outlined several targets for 2030:

• Malaysia to rank among the Top 20 in the Global Innovation Index,
• 30% productivity increase across all sectors, compared to 2020 levels,
• Transform 20% of semi- and low-skilled labour to highly skilled labour,
• 3.5% gross expenditure on R&D, including 4IR-related R&D,
• More home-grown 4IR technology providers, and
• 80% of e-government services are integrated and supported by 4IR technology.