AI Literacy Must Reach All Malaysians, Says Human Resources Minister
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong emphasizes the need for every Malaysian, regardless of background, to have access to artificial intelligence (AI) literacy. As AI becomes a key feature in future societies, understanding its basics is essential for all, including housewives.
“AI will shape the future,” Sim states. “Our people must be ready not just to use AI, but to leverage it for personal and national benefit.”
Conference Highlights Focus on Workforce and AI
Sim spoke at the 52nd ARTDO International Conference held at the Eastern & Oriental Hotel, where over 280 delegates from 20 countries gathered. Key topics included talent acceleration, coaching culture, digital leadership, mental wellness, and building high-performance work environments.
The Human Resources Ministry is committed to preparing Malaysians, especially the workforce, through broad upskilling programs and appropriate legislation to manage AI integration responsibly.
Balancing AI Opportunities and Challenges
“AI must be used responsibly and not abused,” Sim said, highlighting efforts to regulate the technology effectively. A recent ministry report identifies ten sectors likely to be affected by AI. While some jobs may disappear, new roles will also emerge.
- Prompt Engineer: Professionals who input precise data to AI systems for accurate results.
- Data Input and Security Specialists: Growing demand for roles ensuring data integrity and protection.
Sim stresses that workers, including those in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), should acquire functional AI knowledge to stay competitive.
Practical Steps for Workers and HR Professionals
Workers should adapt to AI by developing skills that complement new technologies. Even basic awareness of how household AI devices function is a useful starting point.
Widespread AI literacy supports economic transformation and protects society against misuse, such as misinformation spread through flawed AI algorithms on social media. This underscores the need for clear legislation and public awareness.
“Malaysians must understand what AI truly means,” Sim concludes.
About ARTDO
ARTDO (Asian Regional Training and Development Organisation), founded in 1974, is an international non-profit network of training institutions, HR professionals, and multinational companies. This year’s Asia Pacific HRD Awards recognized Yan Keng Cheng and Samson Lee Sung Hsien for their outstanding contributions to HR development.
For HR professionals interested in enhancing AI skills, exploring practical AI courses and certifications can be valuable. Resources like Complete AI Training’s latest courses offer targeted learning paths that align with emerging job roles in AI.
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