Malaysia's Ministry of Digital and Microsoft announced the launch of Microsoft Elevate, a national AI capacity building initiative aimed at strengthening the country's AI readiness through 2030. The program was officially launched by Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo.

The initiative targets educators, micro small and medium enterprises, retired servicemen and women, learning institutions, and civil service members. Microsoft Elevate operates in partnership with the National AI Office and Sekretariat Majlis TVET Negara, alongside Biji-biji Initiative & Mereka.

Since its pilot phase began in January, Microsoft Elevate has reached 80,000 learners. The program follows a phased roadmap extending to 2030, progressing from initial skilling and workforce activation through sector deepening to institutionalization.

The announcement builds on Microsoft's previous initiatives in Malaysia, including the AIForMYFuture program that provided AI skills to 800,000 Malaysians and the Bersama Malaysia initiative that trained 1.53 million people in cloud, AI, and cybersecurity skills.

"As Malaysia accelerates its ambition to become a regional AI hub, building digital capabilities that reach every segment of our society is essential," said Gobind Singh Deo.

The program specifically targets teachers across K-12, technical and vocational education, community colleges and universities to integrate AI into teaching and curriculum design. Malaysia's MSME sector will receive AI literacy and productivity training for business operations and customer engagement.

Microsoft Elevate is being implemented in multiple markets across Southeast Asia as part of Microsoft's global initiative to provide AI skills and tools to communities and organizations preparing for an AI-powered economy.