20 Aug 2025, Wed

What Is llms.txt? A New Tool to Help Malaysian SMEs Thrive in AI Search

What is llms.txt?

As the digital landscape rapidly shifts from traditional search to AI-powered platforms, Malaysian SMEs need to stay ahead of the curve. One new, powerful tool that can give your business an edge is llms.txt — a simple yet impactful file that helps your website become more visible in AI-generated results.

What Is llms.txt?

llms.txt is a plain-text file written in Markdown format, placed in your website’s root directory (e.g., /var/www/html/llms.txt). It tells Large Language Models (LLMs) — like the ones behind ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and Google’s AI Overviews — what your site is about.

It includes your website’s key pages, titles, and optional descriptions in a format that AI crawlers can easily understand. Think of it as a shortcut to your site’s most important content, making it easier for AI to reference your business correctly in search responses.

Why llms.txt Matters for SMEs in Malaysia

1. GEO vs. SEO

  • SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Optimizes your site for search engines like Google or Bing.
  • GEO (Generative Engine Optimization): Optimizes your site for AI search engines, which power tools like ChatGPT and AI Overview.

As more people in Malaysia begin to search using AI-powered platforms, GEO becomes just as critical as SEO.

2. Rising AI Search Trends

Statista predicts that generative AI search usage in the U.S. will more than double from 2024 to 2028 — and this trend is already influencing how Malaysians search for products, services, and information online.

3. Early Adoption = Competitive Advantage

Most Malaysian SMEs haven’t implemented GEO yet. By setting up llms.txt now, you can improve your chances of being featured in AI-generated answers before your competitors catch on.

4. Control Your Content

llms.txt gives you more control over how your business content is interpreted and used by AI — including the ability to exclude proprietary information.

How Does llms.txt Work?

Markdown format

# llms.txt
## Docs
- /api.md
A summary of API methods, authentication, rate limits, and example requests.
- /quickstart.md
A setup guide to help developers start using the platform quickly.
## Policies
- /terms.md
Legal terms outlining service usage.
- /returns.md
Information about return eligibility and processing.
## Products
- /catalog.md
A structured index of product categories, SKUs, and metadata.
- /sizing-guide.md
A reference guide for product sizing across categories.
  • Location: Upload this file to your website’s root directory: https://your-website.com/llms.txt
  • Function: Directs AI to your most important pages, improves how your business is summarized, and reduces misinterpretation of your services.

Creating Your Own llms.txt

Option 1: Manual Method

  1. Write your content in Markdown format.
  2. Include key URLs, titles, and optional descriptions.
  3. Upload it to your site’s root folder.

Option 2: Use a Generator

Use online tools like Wordlift’s llms.txt Generator to simplify the process.

WordPress Users:

  • Hostinger plugin: Go to hPanel → Tools → AI Preferences → Turn on llms.txt.
  • Hostinger Horizons: Automatically created when you publish your site.
  • Yoast SEO Plugin: You may install Yoast SEO Plugin to enable this feature.

llms.txt vs. robots.txt

Featurerobots.txtllms.txt
AudienceSearch enginesAI crawlers / Large Language Models
PurposeCrawl control, indexingContent understanding for AI
FormatPlain textMarkdown
FocusRules for crawlingContent clarity and structure

Strategic Takeaway for Malaysian SMEs

By adding llms.txt to your digital strategy:

  • You enhance your AI search presence without replacing traditional SEO.
  • You stay relevant as users shift from Google to AI tools.
  • You position your brand as forward-thinking and tech-ready.

It’s especially useful for industries like:

  • Tourism & Hospitality
  • Professional Services
  • Retail & E-commerce
  • Education & Training

Action Plan: Get Started with llms.txt

  1. Audit your website and identify your high-value content.
  2. Create a llms.txt file manually or using a generator.
  3. Upload it to your website’s root directory.
  4. Update it regularly as your content evolves.
  5. Monitor your visibility in AI tools like Bing Copilot, Google AI Overview, or ChatGPT.

Final Thoughts

llms.txt is a low-effort, high-impact tool that Malaysian SMEs can use right now to gain an edge in the future of digital visibility. By combining traditional SEO with GEO practices, you’ll ensure your business is not only found but also accurately represented in the growing world of AI-driven search.

Need help implementing llms.txt for your SME? Reach out to us — we’re here to help Malaysian businesses grow smarter in the age of AI.


By Song Jingwoo

I am a Content Writer specializing in web design and business development. I have a passion for web development and server administration, and I am also learning how to help SMEs in Malaysia grow. By combining my IT and writing experience, I create content that helps people easily understand complex technical topics and start their online journey.