Australia news LIVE: One Nation reveals migration plan; Trump downplays AI threat; voters lose faith in PM on economy

Malaysia has set a goal to become an "AI nation" by 2030, with the government taking steps to ensure its citizens are well-prepared for the technology's integration into various aspects of life. AI is already present in daily activities, such as navigation apps, email filtering, food delivery recommendations, and online shopping suggestions. However, the focus now shifts to how AI will become even more ingrained in workplaces, schools, businesses, and government services.

To prepare Malaysians for this future, the government is addressing concerns about the impact of AI on jobs. Under the National AI Action Plan 2026–2030, Malaysia aims to create over 300,000 AI-related jobs by 2030. Simultaneously, the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 targets 700,000 workers to be reskilled and upskilled, and 80% of the population to become digitally literate by the same date.

Recognizing that 685,000 workers may be significantly affected by AI within the next three to five years, initiatives like Jelajah AI MyMahir are being implemented. This program, run by TalentCorp under the Human Resources Ministry, targets students, workers, jobseekers, entrepreneurs, homemakers, and senior citizens to provide safeguards for those whose roles or tasks may change. The program aims to reskill and upskill the affected workforce, ensuring they adapt to new demands.

In terms of basic digital and AI literacy, the Digital Ministry's Rakyat Digital platform offers free foundational learning in various areas, including AI, cybersecurity, cloud technology, blockchain, and generative AI. The platform provides courses in Malay, English, Chinese, and Tamil, catering to diverse demographics. Features like dyslexia-friendly content further enhance accessibility.

The Rakyat Digital platform also targets younger Malaysians aged 18 to 30 through the AI Untuk Rakyat initiative, which aims to reach 100,000 participants by 2027. This program is available through Rakyat Digital and offers six modules that cover basic AI concepts, with participants receiving free access to selected AI applications and software upon completion. Providers include YTL AI Labs, Alibaba, Google, and others.

While the government has programs tailored for specific target groups, there is no single approach that prepares every Malaysian identically. For individuals outside these target groups, the Rakyat Digital platform serves as a common entry point for basic digital and AI learning. Importantly, AI readiness extends beyond employment considerations, encompassing the ability to identify AI-generated misinformation, protect personal data, recognize scams, and understand the limitations of AI-generated information.