Malaysia Risks Falling Behind Without AI Adoption, Says PM

PETALING JAYA, Aug 26 (Bernama) -- Malaysia cannot afford to fall behind in mastering artificial intelligence (AI), which is central to human capital development and national competitiveness, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said. 

The prime minister said the country’s ability to acquire new skills and technologies is key to ensuring Malaysia remains resilient in facing global digital transformation.

“If we do not implement 5G and AI, we will be left behind, our progress will be slow and lagging.

“Our children will not be able to secure better job opportunities if the country fails to enhance their skills, intelligence and competencies,” he said when launching the CD:NXT programme organised by CelcomDigi Bhd here today.

Also present were Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and CelcomDigi chief executive officer Datuk Idham Nawawi.

Anwar said AI and digital transformation also serve as solutions to bridge the digital divide among Malaysians.

“AI and digital transformation must help address part of the digital divide between the fortunate in urban areas and the poor in cities, villages and remote areas,” he said.

However, he cautioned that past experiences showed the adoption of computers and new technologies did not necessarily guarantee higher productivity without efforts to improve workforce skills.

“This compels us to think about how we can uplift our people’s capabilities, train them and drive innovation so that it truly benefits national development,” he said.

CD:NXT is an initiative by CelcomDigi to nurture future talent in line with Malaysia’s aspirations to become an economy driven by 5G and AI technologies.

-- BERNAMA