Hub of ASEAN Technology and Innovation (HATI) founder Lee Chean Chung said artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a key driver of Malaysia’s economic growth, industrial upgrading and national competitiveness.
Lee, who is the Petaling Jaya MP urged industry players and NGOs to actively explore government incentives to drive Malaysia’s AI transformation and digital future.
“Malaysia is rapidly progressing toward becoming a regional hub for AI and digital innovation in Southeast Asia,” he said while officiating at the launch of GBA Next Humanoid Expo 2026 (Malaysia Version) and the MAAI Ecosystem App at Royale Chulan Damansara Hotel on Nov 18, 2025.
Lee noted that in view of this trend, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced several AI-related incentives under the 2026 National Budget.
These include the RM53 million allocated for the Malaysia Digital Acceleration Grant to encourage the adoption of blockchain, AI and quantum computing technologies; an additional 50% tax deduction for SMEs undertaking AI and cybersecurity certification training; and RM180 million injected into the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) Industrial Development Fund to support high-impact sectors such as semiconductors, AI and digital technology.
Organised by the Malaysian Association of Artificial Intelligence Technology and Innovation (MAAI), in collaboration with Boustead Holdings Berhad, the expo drew strong participation from local and international tech companies, investors, academics and business leaders, including from Malaysia, China, India and ASEAN countries.
Among the attendees were MAAI president and organising chairman Henry Lim Chin Poo, MAAI permanent hon. founding president Datin Alice Low Chow Yeng, Boustead Holdings Berhad group managing director Dato’ Indera Ir Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad and HATI chief executive officer Yeo An Thai.
The expo featured about 10 booths showcasing AI innovations, MoU signing between strategic partners from China and Malaysia, held under the theme ‘AI Transformation and Global Collaboration,’ and followed by a gala dinner.
Lee encouraged businesses, tech companies, SMEs and MAAI members to actively engage with relevant government agencies to better understand the grants, guidelines and application processes.
Lee also introduced the newly established HATI base located at the Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) Innovation Centre. The base aims to accelerate startup growth and foster deep-tech unicorns through technology transfer and cross-border collaboration.
HATI’s vision includes attracting 100 startups within two years, with half from deep-tech sectors; incubating three quasi-unicorns within three years; and developing at least one potential unicorn within five years.
To date, 10 local and international tech companies have already joined as early tenants, signalling Petaling Jaya’s rise as a new regional hub for technological innovation.
Lee emphasized that the HATI’s vision aligns closely with MAAI’s mission, and both parties have strong potential for future collaboration.
He welcomed MAAI to engage further in driving Malaysia’s AI ecosystem onto the global stage.
Meanwhile, MAAI president Henry Lim Chin Poo said that since it’s establishment in 2023, MAAI has been committed to accelerating Malaysia’s transition toward an AI-driven economy.
He noted that the GBA Next Humanoid Expo 2026 (Malaysia Version) will position Malaysia as a key global platform for AI collaboration.
 founder Lee Chean Chung said Malaysia is poised to become ASEAN’s AI innovation hub.){kind=link}