TECHNOLOGY LEADERS WEEK

Given the swift pace of innovation and progress, every sector and industry in Malaysia stands poised to benefit from advancements. Furthermore, disruptive technologies like Gen AI are projected to amplify the country’s economic capacity by an impressive US$113.4 billion, with particular emphasis on bolstering the industrial sector. 

Ensuring Malaysia’s workforce is equipped with the requisite knowledge and skills to thrive in this dynamic digital environment is imperative, especially given the industrial sector’s significant labour-intensive nature and potential for capitalising on emerging opportunities. 

To address these opportunities and challenges, skill-first learning has emerged as a widely embraced and distinctive strategy. By prioritising skills development, this approach empowers individuals to navigate and thrive in dynamic industries, fostering resilience and fostering sustainable growth. 

What is skill-first learning?  

With a growing demand for skilled personnel in digital marketing, cybersecurity, data analytics and artificial intelligence, Malaysia must focus on skilling and upskilling. Prioritising expertise development in emerging technologies will enhance Malaysia’s global workforce competitiveness, support innovation and contribute to economic growth. 

Additionally, in light of the global shift towards remote and hybrid work models, skill-based learning must be prioritised. Malaysia, with the 14th largest population of remote workers, needs to equip professionals with the requisite abilities to compete effectively in the global marketplace. Leveraging technology to connect workers with global opportunities, Malaysia stands at the forefront of the remote work trend, simultaneously fostering economic growth and promoting workforce equality. 

Moreover, research indicates that APAC workers with advanced digital skills earn, on average, 65% more than those lacking such skills, with 57% of intermediate and 39% of basic digital workers also commanding higher earnings compared to their non-digital counterparts. 

Skill-first learning is an innovative education method that focuses on developing practical skills throughout one’s career. It is gaining popularity in Malaysia as individuals recognise the limitations of traditional education systems as well as an evolving employment landscape.  

This approach emphasises problem-solving, critical thinking, experiential learning, and adaptability, preparing individuals for diverse professions through formal education, employment training programmes and on-the-job learning initiatives. 

Digital Upskilling for Industry Development and Public Sector Transformation  

Digital upskilling is vital for driving industrial growth and fostering change in the public sector. Recent studies reveal that over 80% of global businesses invest in employee training for digital skills to maintain competitiveness.  

Governments are also allocating significant funds, with projections indicating a global investment of US$3.6 trillion by 2026 for similar programmes. This investment enhances public service efficiency, fosters innovation, and fuels economic growth by improving workforce capabilities and leveraging digital technology. 

Generative AI for Everyone 

With the help of GenAI Academy, employees are prepared to succeed in the quickly changing field of redefining careers. People are equipped to adapt to change and succeed in their positions, embracing the digital era and embracing change through creative training programmes and customised learning experiences. 

OpenGov Asia invites you to a timely OpenGov Leadership Forum session focused on handling the difficulties and opportunities of the digital transformation age. Delegates will delve into optimising emerging technologies for critical applications while honing essential digital skills to thrive in Malaysia’s competitive landscape. Through collaborative discussions, attendees will acquire practical strategies to enhance reliability and foster innovation in their industries.  

This event is a great peer-to-peer learning platform, delivering unique insights and actual concepts to help both the public and private sectors embrace digital transformation more effectively.