Malaysia Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has announced that the government intends to create 186 new digital economy centers (PEDi), bringing the total number of centers nationwide to 1,097. PEDi is a part of the government’s initiative to enhance digital literacy in Malaysia, which corresponds to the projection that the digital economy sector will account for 25.5% of the national gross domestic product (GDP) by 2025.
The purpose of PEDi centers is to empower citizens in participating and benefiting from the digital economy while navigating it safely. Hence, it is aimed to have at least one PEDi per DUN (state legislative assembly) to make it more accessible to people in both urban and rural areas while providing beneficial programs on digital literacy and the digital economy.
Furthermore, the Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), a government agency operating under the Ministry of Communications and Digital in Malaysia, took charge of implementing national digital economy policies. As part of its initiatives, it organized a countrywide tour program known as the “Jelajah Saya Digital” campaign. This campaign aimed to raise awareness about digital technology among the public.
Additionally, the Ministry collaborated with CelcomDigi, a local telecommunications provider, to launch the “National Anti-Scam 2023” program. This program’s primary focus was to improve digital literacy and address crucial issues concerning technology, including scams, cyber security, safety, and data protection.
(Sources: New Straits Times, Malay Mail)