In a significant move to fortify their strategic partnership, Pakistan and Malaysia have committed to deepening their collaboration in the digital and technology domains. This mutual understanding was cemented during a high-level meeting between Pakistan's Federal Minister for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, and Malaysia's Minister of Communications, Ahmad Fahmi bin Mohamed Fadzil.
Strengthening Strategic Ties on the Global Stage
The pivotal discussion took place on the sidelines of the World Telecommunication Development Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan. Both ministers took the opportunity to express their appreciation for the robust bilateral relations that have long existed between the two nations. They further pledged to expand this partnership into the realm of emerging technologies, signaling a new chapter in their diplomatic and economic cooperation.
A Shared Vision for a Digital Future
Minister Shaza Fatima highlighted a powerful synergy between the digital ambitions of both countries. She stated that Pakistan’s digital transformation vision aligns closely with Malaysia’s MyDigital Blueprint. This shared goal focuses on building modern, competitive economies that are driven by technological innovation.
To ensure this cooperation is sustained and effective, Minister Khawaja put forward a concrete proposal: the launch of a Pakistan–Malaysia Digital Policy Dialogue. This initiative aims to institutionalize the partnership, creating a formal platform for ongoing discussion and joint action.
Beyond policy, the minister underscored the critical importance of human capital development. She emphasized talent mobility and joint skills development initiatives, with a specific focus on cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, and the Internet of Things.
Pakistan's National AI Policy Takes Center Stage
In a separate address at an event in Islamabad, Shaza Fatima provided an update on Pakistan's domestic tech agenda. She revealed that the country's national Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy has been finalized following extensive consultations with stakeholders.
With the policy now formulated, the government's primary focus has shifted to its implementation. The minister stressed that embracing technology is essential for Pakistan's progress. While acknowledging that Pakistan currently lacks a specific AI regulatory framework, she noted that several existing initiatives, laws, and policies within the IT ministry are designed to tackle the challenges associated with the adoption of AI technologies.
