UAE and Malaysia join forces for artificial intelligence advancement

The partnership aims to use AI and data analytics to improve community safety, national security, and operational efficiencies

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, and Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, look on as Mohamed Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment, and Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Malaysia’sShow more

The UAE and Malaysia have signed an initial agreement to support joint investment in artificial intelligence, that aims to use AI and advanced data analytics to improve community safety, enhance national security, and increase operational efficiencies.

According to the agreement, both countries will collaborate in promoting technical co-operation in various key areas, the Abu Dhabi Media Office announced on Monday.

This includes the development of AI-driven national security systems, the establishment of high-performance computing data centres and national security operations centres, the improvement of customs tax collection and the improvement of operational efficiencies.

The initial agreement was officially signed by Mohamed Alsuwaidi, the UAE’s Minister of Investment, and Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Malaysia’s Minister of Home Affairs, in the presence of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi; Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser.

“This memorandum of understanding represents a significant step towards enhancing co-operation in artificial intelligence and operational efficiency, contributing to the well-being of our societies and improving quality of life for our communities,” said Mr Alsuwaidi.

The UAE and Malaysia also discussed the latest advancements in utilising advanced technology and artificial intelligence in various sectors. The focus was on areas that have a positive impact on living standards and quality of life.

The agreement marks a “significant step forward following confirmation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (Cepa) in October 2024”, the Abu Dhabi Media Office said.

This significant achievement further strengthens the robust economic ties between the UAE and Malaysia. In the first half of 2024, non-oil trade between the two countries reached $2.5 billion, marking a 7 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Malaysia stands as the UAE's 12th largest trading partner in Asia and ranks fifth among Asean nations. The UAE holds the position of Malaysia's second-largest trade partner in the Arab world, representing 32 per cent of Malaysia's trade within the region.

Malaysia will start negotiations for a free-trade agreement with the Gulf countries in May as the South-East Asian nation aims to further strengthen trade and economic ties with the six-member bloc.

The Gulf level talks will follow the signing of the Cepa between Malaysia and the UAE on Tuesday, coinciding with the visit of Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to the Emirates, Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Zafrul Aziz told The National on Monday.