Malaysia Expands AI Training Beyond Cities to Rural Areas
The Malaysian government is extending artificial intelligence skills development to small towns and rural areas, moving beyond concentration in major cities. Deputy Economy Minister Mohd Shahar Abdullah announced the expansion while officiating the AI MyMahir Tour in Kuantan on May 23.
The initiative targets all levels of society: community leaders, small business owners, school students, and university students. The government views AI for Government initiatives as essential to shifting the country's economic model from "Made In Malaysia" to "Made By Malaysia."
Building Tech Literacy Across Society
Abdullah said AI skills must reach grassroots groups, not just educated professionals in urban centers. The approach reflects a core objective of Malaysia's 13th Plan: strengthening technology literacy so the country can develop local creators, developers, and technology leaders.
"The democratisation of AI values must encompass the entire spectrum of society," Abdullah told reporters.
Program Reaches 400 Participants
The AI MyMahir Tour in Paya Besar brought together more than 400 participants from diverse backgrounds. Attendees included university and school students, teachers, entrepreneurs, housewives, Felda youths, and community members.
The tour was organized with Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah and has already visited eight parliamentary constituencies: Kota Kinabalu, Sepanggar, Papar, Bangi, Sungai Buloh, Kluang, Parit Sulong, and Sekijang.
Government officials see AI for Education as critical to closing skill gaps across the country and preparing the workforce for technology-driven roles.
Your membership also unlocks:
