Tech Industry Players Must Step Up To Ensure Graduates Ready For AI
By Nurunnasihah Ahmad Rashid
KUALA LUMPUR, June 2 (Bernama) -- Technology industry players must step up to ensure that graduates are ready to meet surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI) talents, while also urging the government to support this initiative.
Associate professor Dr Mohd Naz'ri Mahrin, dean of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s (UTM) Faculty of Artificial Intelligence (FAI), highlighted that the lack of AI talent is a significant challenge for companies globally, as nations recognise AI's potential to boost their gross domestic product (GDP).
According to the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry’s AI Roadmap (2021-2025), Malaysia's GDP baseline growth is about 4.4 per cent, with an additional 1.2 per cent growth to be driven by AI.
As such, Mohd Naz'ri emphasised the need for industry players to take the steps necessary to address the talent gap.
“There is never enough talent, and with the growing demand for technical skills, this shortage indicates a growing economy, which is a positive thing.
“Countries with a strong AI-skilled workforce and a supportive ecosystem are more likely to attract and see an increasing inflow of foreign investments," he told Bernama.
To this end, Mohd Naz'ri said that UTM's FAI will introduce the Bachelor of Science in AI programme in October this year, where students will undertake a three-year course that would equip them with the skills they need to succeed in the AI field.
"AI is not new to UTM. It originally stems from computer science and engineering, which are core strengths of UTM, Malaysia’s premier university in engineering and technology. We have been prioritising AI since 1997," he added.
He projected that the country would need between 100,000 and 200,000 AI professionals within five years to support Malaysia's economic growth in the long term.
“This demand will continue to increase as the local industries undertake more digital transformation initiatives in their respective organisations,” said Mohd Naz'ri.
He added that UTM is open to partnerships with industry players to promote research and development in AI and machine learning, aiming to embed these advancements into Malaysia's tech landscape.
He stressed the importance of having all stakeholders, including academics, industry players, and technology providers on board in this journey.
“A good ecosystem is essential to approach the integration of AI with a balanced perspective, considering ethical implications, privacy concerns and the need for digital literacy.
“By addressing these challenges head-on, we can create a resilient and sustainable digital ecosystem that supports Malaysia’s growth and prosperity,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
