A record 102 technology players were recognised at the PIKOM Digital Excellence Awards (PDEA) 2026, more than double the 52 winners recorded last year, reflecting the growing breadth of Malaysia’s digital ecosystem.
A highlight of the awards was the presentation of the PIKOM Tech Luminary Award to Datuk (Dr) Yasmin Mahmood for her leadership, influence and contribution to Malaysia’s technology industry.
Yasmin, currently Executive Chairman of Jasa Kita Berhad, previously served as Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), where she played a key role in advancing Malaysia’s digital economy and strengthening the country’s position on the global technology stage.
The awards gala brought together more than 1,100 industry leaders, government representatives and technology professionals, making it the largest dinner in the history of PIKOM, which is marking its 40th anniversary this year.
PIKOM Recognises Growth of Malaysia’s Digital Ecosystem
PIKOM Chairman Adjunct Professor (Practice) Alex Liew said the record number of participants demonstrated the strength and diversity of Malaysia’s technology ecosystem.
He stressed that the increase in award recipients did not make the PDEA easier to win, with every submission required to meet stringent qualification requirements before undergoing independent assessment against defined criteria.
PDEA has grown steadily since its inaugural edition in 2024, when 34 winners were recognised. The number increased to 52 winners in 2025 before reaching 102 this year.
New categories were also introduced in 2026 to recognise emerging innovations that are reshaping industries and creating new opportunities.
Liew said the winners demonstrated Malaysia’s ability to develop technology solutions with regional and global relevance.
“We hope the recognition will strengthen confidence in their organisations, motivate their teams and help showcase Malaysian capabilities to the region and the world,” he said.
PDEA winners may also have opportunities to represent Malaysia at regional and international awards organised by the Asian-Oceanian Computing Industry Organization, the Asia Pacific ICT Alliance and the World Innovation, Technology and Services Alliance.
Malaysia Urged to Build Its Own Digital Capabilities
The awards also highlighted the importance of developing homegrown technology as Malaysia works towards becoming an AI Nation by 2030.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said Malaysia must move beyond simply adopting technologies developed elsewhere. His speech was delivered on his behalf by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) Chairman Ganesh Kumar Bangah.
“True digital sovereignty means moving from being passive consumers and manufacturing hubs to becoming creators, leaders, and owners of the very tools, architectures, and platforms driving the global economy,” Gobind said.
He called on the digital industry to work more closely with the government on practical regulatory environments, industry-led talent development and the effective implementation of national digital strategies.
“Government policies set the trajectory, but the private sector dictates the velocity. PIKOM is uniquely positioned to help the government accelerate its digital ambitions,” he said.
AI and Digital Innovation to Support SMEs
Gobind also urged Malaysian technology companies to strengthen the country’s role as a technology bridge for Southeast Asia.
This includes developing interoperable platforms and localised artificial intelligence models that reflect the region’s languages, markets and security priorities.
He also highlighted the need to make AI and advanced digital solutions more accessible to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
For smaller businesses, digital adoption is increasingly becoming a matter of survival rather than an optional investment, reinforcing the need for technology solutions that can be adopted across different segments of the economy.
Industry players were also encouraged to submit their views and proposals for Budget 2027 through the Ministry of Finance’s official portal.
PIKOM Marks 40 Years of Supporting Malaysia’s Tech Industry
The PDEA gala dinner also commemorated PIKOM’s 40th anniversary under the theme “Celebration, Recognition and Inclusivity”.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, PIKOM paid tribute to its 21 past chairmen and recognised 41 member companies that have supported the association for between 25 and 40 years.
“As PIKOM enters its fifth decade, we will remain a bridge between government and industry, established leaders and emerging talent, and Malaysia and the global digital economy,” Liew said.
The association also expressed its appreciation to its 2026 corporate partners Maxis, U Mobile and China Mobile International, as well as media partner Media Prima, for supporting the awards and its wider industry initiatives.
The record turnout and expanded awards programme mark another milestone for PIKOM as it enters its fifth decade, while highlighting the growing range of Malaysian companies contributing to the country’s digital economy and technology landscape.
