DALIA 2.0: An Effort by Google Cloud, PointStar and MPC to Boost Malaysian Productivity

Last week, I attended the Go Digital Summit: Gemini for Google Cloud Day 2024, hosted in conjunction with PointStar at the grand Le Méridien Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. The event provided an in-depth look into the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly on how it can transform business operations – though, admittedly, much of it was information we were already familiar with.

The event highlighted Google Gemini, which, in my opinion, seems to be playing catch-up to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, and featured plenty of discussions on how this technology could be integrated into various industries to drive productivity and innovation.

The Go Digital Summit: Gemini for Google Cloud Day 2024 featured a comprehensive program that included keynotes, breakout sessions, live solution showcases, and networking opportunities. Attendees were offered insights into how Gemini could help revolutionise workflows, enhance collaboration, and also drive innovation across different sectors – some of the key reasons why most companies would want to adopt AI. In addition, the discussions also underscored the need for careful consideration of AI’s integration into existing business processes, given the complexities involved.

Although the AI platform was a major topic, the real standout for me at the summit was the launch of the Digital Acceleration for Learning and Industry Adoption (DALIA) 2.0 programme. This initiative, a more improved continuation of the previous DALIA programme that was launched last year, is designed to help Malaysian businesses integrate AI and cloud solutions to enhance their business productivity. Similar to the DALIA, the 2.0 version also aims to assist enterprises across the nation in achieving a minimum of at least RM 1 million in productivity gains over three years.

The Role of DALIA 2.0

The DALIA programme has been recognised as Malaysian Productivity Corporation (MPC)’s flagship Productivity Step Up Programme, with PointStar appointed as the primary technology consultant. In its first iteration, the programme supported nearly 100 organisations in Malaysia, helping them begin their digitalisation efforts using Google Cloud’s AppSheet solutions, a no-code development platform. The second phase, DALIA 2.0, is expected to expand this support to even more companies, focusing specifically on AI and cloud solutions.

While I have to say that the goals of DALIA 2.0 are quite ambitious, it’s nevertheless worth considering whether the programme’s targets are realistic for all participants.

We all know that AI and cloud technologies, when combined, offer significant advantages, but their successful implementation requires more than just access to tools; it demands a fundamental shift in how businesses operate. The emphasis on achieving substantial productivity gains might not account for the varying readiness levels among participating companies.

But despite all of this, Dr Mohamad Norjayadi Tamam, Deputy Director General of MPC, expressed his confidence in the DALIA 2.0’s potential to drive digital transformation in Malaysia. He highlighted that the collaboration between MPC, PointStar and Google Cloud can have a significant importance in achieving the programme’s goals.

AI Fits for Businesses of All Sizes

Throughout the summit, industry experts from the likes of Logitech, Yubico, Wood Wing, PIKOM, and QSR Brands shared their insights on AI optimisation strategies. These sessions highlighted the potential of AI to address significant business challenges. Yet, the discussions also pointed to the reality that AI adoption is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different industries and companies face unique challenges that require tailored approaches to AI integration.

Michael Hoo, Head of Customer Engineering at Google Cloud, Malaysia, emphasised the possibilities that generative AI, like Gemini, offers to businesses of all sizes. He noted that these technologies could significantly enhance productivity and decision-making. However, the broader implication is that businesses must be equipped with the necessary expertise and infrastructure to fully leverage these advancements.

Building a Strong Foundation for AI Adoption

PointStar, Google Cloud, and MPC have demonstrated a commitment to supporting Malaysian businesses in this journey. Yet, the success of these initiatives will ultimately depend on how well companies can integrate AI into their existing operations. The potential for AI to drive productivity and innovation is substantial, but it must be matched by a clear understanding of the resources and efforts required to achieve these outcomes.