Malaysian tech professionals give digital trust a 2.3 out of 5 on data-sharing comfort
A nationwide survey of 86 Malaysian ICT, government and academic professionals shows only 47% trust their organisations to handle AI-related risks, while comfort with sharing personal data scores 2.3 out of 5 and…
Source: Malaysian Institute of Microelectronic Systems · August 12, 2026 at 7:41 PM · AI-assisted report
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KUALA LUMPUR, 13 AUGUST 2026 —
A nationwide survey of 86 Malaysian ICT, government and academic professionals shows only 47% trust their organisations to handle AI-related risks, while comfort with sharing personal data scores 2.3 out of 5 and perceived control over that data scores 2.1 out of 5.
Market Impact
The findings, released after a National Dialogue on Trusted Intelligence in July 2026, reveal that data privacy tops the list of trust drivers, cited by 47% of respondents as the single most important foundation for a trusted digital ecosystem.
MIMOS, the national applied research and development centre under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, conducted the interactive poll in real time during the dialogue. The results were released in a statement from the institute.
Security, safety, privacy and reliability emerged as the four most frequent terms when participants were asked what a trusted digital ecosystem should look like. Safe transactions and blockchain were also highlighted as critical components.
Among the top concerns cited were online scams, AI misuse, cybersecurity threats, privacy risks and regulatory challenges. MIMOS said these findings provide direction for policymakers and technologists aiming to strengthen Malaysia’s digital resilience.
MIMOS said the results show trust cannot be delivered by technology alone. “Trust is no longer just about securing systems; it is about ensuring that digital content can be verified and reliable,” the institute said. “Building a trusted digital ecosystem requires more than technological advancement.”
Participants also stressed the need for responsible innovation, transparent governance and collaboration across sectors to close what the institute calls a dual deficit in data agency. Without such measures, even the most advanced digital technologies risk under-delivering on their potential.
The survey comes as Malaysia accelerates its digital economy plans, including AI integration across public services and private enterprises. Industry watchers say the findings point to the need for clearer data stewardship rules and stronger enforcement to reassure professionals whose organisations are expected to deploy AI systems.
MIMOS will use the insights to shape future programmes aimed at building public and professional confidence in digital platforms.
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