Free AI Subscriptions in Malaysia: 100,000 More Youths to Get ChatGPT, Gemini and More
Budget 2027 adds 100,000 free AI subscriptions for Malaysians aged 18–30, now including ChatGPT. Here's who qualifies, how to apply and how to use it.
Introduction
Good news for young Malaysians: Budget 2027 adds another 100,000 free AI subscriptions for youths, and ChatGPT is now on the list. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced the expansion while tabling the budget on 9 October 2026, citing "encouraging take-up of the existing programme."
Here's who qualifies, which tools are included and how to make the most of your three free months.
What Is the AI Untuk Rakyat Programme?
AI Untuk Rakyat ("AI for the People") is a government programme run through the Rakyat Digital portal. It launched on 31 August 2026 and gives young Malaysians free, time-limited access to premium AI tools once they finish a set of AI learning modules.
Detail | What we know |
|---|---|
Who | Malaysians aged 18 to 30 |
Places | First round about 100,000; Budget 2027 adds 100,000 more |
How | Complete the required AI course modules on Rakyat Digital |
Reward | 3 months of free access to selected AI tools |
Tools (current round) | Google Gemini Enterprise, YTL ILMUchat, Alibaba MuleRun and WonderClip |
New for 2027 | ChatGPT to be added |
Sources: The Edge Malaysia, Lowyat.NET, The Star (9 October 2026).
How to Apply: Step by Step
Register on the Rakyat Digital portal with your MyDigital ID or IC details.
Complete the required AI course modules. They cover AI basics and safe, responsible use.
Choose your AI tool from the list available in your round.
Activate your 3-month subscription and start using it.
Tip: places are limited. Eligibility and timing for the new 100,000 places will be confirmed by the government, so check the official Rakyat Digital portal and avoid third-party "registration" links.
Bonus: 16,000+ Free Courses on Coursera
Budget 2027 also expands Rakyat Digital access to more than 16,000 Coursera courses and professional certificate programmes. You can pair your free AI subscription with a certificate in data analytics, digital marketing or project management and build a portfolio employers will notice.
Is There a Tax Relief for AI Subscriptions?
Some local outlets report that Budget 2027 extends individual income tax relief to cover AI subscriptions. The relief amount, cap and conditions have not been confirmed yet, so wait for LHDN guidance before claiming it.
How to Get Real Value From 3 Free Months
Three months goes quickly. Here's how to turn free access into skills employers want:
Weeks 1–2: Learn prompting basics. Use AI to summarise readings, draft emails and plan your study.
Weeks 3–6: Build something real, such as a portfolio website, a market research report or a small automation for a family business.
Weeks 7–10: Specialise in one area: coding help, content creation, data analysis or design.
Weeks 11–12: Document your projects on LinkedIn or GitHub, then show employers what you can do, not just which tools you've used.
Use AI responsibly: don't paste personal, confidential or exam material into AI tools. Always fact-check AI answers, and say when you've used AI where it's required.
Why This Matters for Malaysia
The programme supports Malaysia's goal of becoming an AI Nation by 2030 and its target of 200,000 AI-skilled workers. For employers, it means a growing pool of graduates who already use AI tools in their daily work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the free AI subscription in Malaysia?
Malaysians aged 18 to 30 who complete the required AI course modules on the Rakyat Digital portal.
Is ChatGPT included in the free AI subscription?
Yes. In Budget 2027 the Prime Minister announced that ChatGPT will be added to the programme's line-up.
How long is the free AI subscription?
Three months of access to the selected AI tool.
How many free AI subscriptions are available?
Budget 2027 adds 100,000 subscriptions on top of the existing programme launched in August 2026.
Build Your AI Career With Us
Codespace AI Technology is a Kuala Lumpur AI company working with the next generation of Malaysian AI talent. If you're a student or graduate building AI skills, follow us for practical guides and opportunities, or get in touch about internships and collaborations.
Note: details are as announced on 9 October 2026 and may change. Always refer to the official Rakyat Digital portal for current eligibility and application steps.
