KESUMA Brings AI Into TVET To Tackle IR4.0 Challenges

GEORGE TOWN, July 28 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) is committed to empowering the development of the country’s human capital by boosting the offering of skills-based courses that can help workers prepare for the demands of the current and future job markets, in line with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR4.0).

Its Minister, Steven Sim, said this included reviewing the syllabus for skills courses at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions under its supervision to incorporate elements of artificial intelligence (AI).

“We will look at the current subject syllabi to include at least basic skills in handling AI technology.

“This is so that even if our trainees do not go on to work directly in tech-related fields, at least they have basic knowledge because AI encompasses all sectors of employment and life,” he told reporters after officiating the opening ceremony of the 52nd Asian Regional Training and Development Organisation (ARTDO) Conference here today.

He said that there are currently 33 Industrial Training Institutes (ILPs) supervised by KESUMA under TVET, adding that cooperation will also be expanded with other TVET institutions and private training providers to strengthen the delivery of technology-based training.

He also hopes to be able to further expand short-term courses and AI literacy programmes to the general public, particularly housewives, to ensure all segments of society are prepared to face technological transformation. 

He said that current technological developments, including AI, digitalisation and the green economy, are growing rapidly, having a significant impact on the country's job market.

To address these challenges, Sim said KESUMA has prepared a report at the end of last year to study the impact of future technology on Malaysia’s workforce.

According to him, the report was developed based on input from industry players across 10 main economic sectors and serves as a crucial guide for the government in formulating policies for skills training and future workforce planning.

“Through this report, we can identify jobs that may be at risk and new job opportunities that may arise. As such, upskilling and reskilling strategies need to be implemented to ensure our employees remain relevant and competitive,” he said.

Therefore, he said KESUMA, through TalentCorp, has introduced the MyMahir portal, which matches new skill requirements with suitable training courses.

“This portal not only helps Malaysians in general, but also policy-makers and companies, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs). They can make more thorough plans towards preparing themselves to face today’s technological challenges,” he added.

-- BERNAMA