By Danial Dzulkifly
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 16 — Selangor is setting its sights on becoming a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductor innovation, with plans to harness these technologies to drive economic growth and enhance social mobility.
Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari said there is a need to create more high-paying jobs within these industries to curb brain drain and encourage the younger generation to embrace opportunities in the growing sector.
“As we move forward, our vision is clear; we want Selangor to be a global leader in digital transformation. This means shaping a resilient and adaptable ecosystem, investing in the right technologies, and empowering our entrepreneurs.
“All of these aspects are critical to ensure AI does not end up a regional buzzword but brings meaningful change to people’s lives.
“Ultimately, our aims revolve around one central theme; higher-paying jobs mean we can accelerate social mobility.
“As I always stress to my team in Selangor, to bring meaningful and long-term changes to the people’s quality of lives in a sustainable manner, we must create a dignified economy and be open to the potential and possibilities of emerging trends,” he said in his opening speech at the 9th Selangor Smart City and Digital Economy Convention (SDEC).
It is being held as part of the four-day Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) 2024, which begins today at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Other than SDEC, the second series of SIBS 2024 also sees the organisation of the 10th Selangor International Expo Food and Beverage and the 4th Selangor Life Sciences Convention.
Amirudin said the state’s ultimate goal is to create a “dignified economy” where technological advancements, like AI, bring tangible benefits to people’s lives.
He also emphasised the state’s commitment to advancing its semiconductor industry, reiterating plans for a second Integrated Circuit Design Park in Cyberjaya.
“This development will bolster our capabilities and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a major player in the global semiconductor industry,” he said.
Amirudin also revealed the state government’s intention to allocate significant funding in the upcoming state budget this November to support this initiative.
