Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Aiming to advance digital innovation, the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Zhejiang University have recently signed a letter of intent focusing on smart cities, AI, and transformation projects based on the ‘Zhejiang Model’.
In a statement by Anuar Fariz Fadzil, CEO at MDEC, the partnership aligns with Malaysia’s goal of emerging as a top digital nation under the MADANI Government.
It also supports the government’s digital transformation initiatives, particularly in nurturing talent, strengthening data governance, ensuring AI security, and advancing smart cities.
“This partnership reinforces MDEC’s core mission to build a robust digital ecosystem that incubates future-ready talent, drives innovation and supports cutting-edge research,” Anuar further noted.
MDEC’s investments and exports programmes under the Malaysia Digital Initiative have successfully landed substantial foreign direct investments (FDI) and created significant traction on exports to China.
Anuar also explained, “All these components are key in developing a successful digital network. The collaboration will include exploring Zhejiang University’s thriving AI ecosystem, particularly in fostering collaboration among government, universities, and the private sector, as well as empowering digital talent.”
“These aspects go beyond technical initiatives to serve as strategic enablers that support Malaysia’s broader goals: boosting our digital competitiveness, nurturing a future-ready workforce and creating inclusive and sustainable smart cities,” he further remarked.
Furthermore, Anuar noted that the ‘Zhejiang Model’ presents Malaysia with a tested framework for seamlessly integrating digital governance and innovation at all societal levels.
“As Malaysia serves as ASEAN Chair this year, this partnership lays the foundation for AI-driven progress that extends well beyond our two nations. It reinforces our nation’s commitment to strengthening regional ties and advancing shared goals in digital transformation.”
Zhejiang University, on the other hand, has long been recognised as a leading force in developing tech expertise and accelerating AI innovation as well as nurturing innovators like Liang Wenfeng, founder of DeepSeek.
This new digital collaboration comes after President Xi Jinping’s recent visit to Malaysia, where discussions with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and and Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo led to a renewed focus on strengthening digital ties.
