Govt's AI training drive to include all workforce segments, says Gobind
by SUFEA SALEHUDDIN
THE government's artificial intelligence (AI) reskilling and upskilling initiatives will not be limited to fresh graduates or young talent, but will also include existing workers whose jobs are at risk of technological disruption, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo (picture).
He said the multi-layered approach to talent development reflects Malaysia's whole-of-nation strategy in preparing for the widespread impact of AI and digitalisation on the labour market.
'This is not focused on just one group. We're looking at various layers — from students in schools to those already working — because technology will affect jobs across the board,' Gobind said at the memorandum of understanding (MOU) exchange ceremony between TalentCorp and MyDigital today.
While much of the government's digital literacy campaigns and early AI awareness efforts have been directed at students through curricular improvements, Gobind stressed that current employees will be a central focus of the government's training agenda.
'People who are already currently employed are the ones whose jobs will be impacted by technology. We must ensure they are trained to pivot when the time comes,' he said.
The government's strategy, he explained, involves encouraging upskilling and reskilling while workers are still in their existing roles, allowing them to transition smoothly when technological shifts alter job requirements.
'This is what we aim to achieve — training while working, so that when change happens, these workers are not left behind,' Gobind said.
The Digital Ministry is working closely with the National AI Office (NIO) and other stakeholders to map training needs and consolidate data from public and private providers, ensuring alignment with real industry demands.
According to Gobind, this includes short- and long-term training programmes with various certifications under initiatives such as MyMahir and the National Training Week 2025, which aim to offer one million upskilling opportunities with a focus on IR4.0 and AI.
He said the collaborative effort also involves accrediting training modules with digital badges and reaching sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing, where the impact of automation is expected to be significant.
'This is why we need input from all sectors — academia, industry, associations and AI experts to make sure the system we build is inclusive and future-ready,' he noted.
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