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In her recent address at an event centred on the evolving workforce amid rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), Ms Rahayu Mahzam, Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, offered her insights. The event delved into how AI is transforming various sectors and its implications for both workers and businesses.
Ms Mahzam highlighted the transformative impact of AI, noting its increasing integration into professional environments. AI tools are now routinely used to automate repetitive tasks, enhance productivity, and streamline operations. The rise of job postings requiring expertise in AI technologies, such as ChatGPT, underscores the growing importance of these skills in today’s job market.
Furthermore, a recent study revealed that 43% of CEOs from a diverse range of industries are already leveraging AI for strategic decision-making, reflecting its critical role in modern business practices.
However, the rapid adoption of AI also brings significant challenges. Concerns about job displacement and skill obsolescence are becoming more pronounced. For instance, the decision by a major language learning app to reduce its workforce in favour of AI-driven solutions highlights the potential for job losses due to technological advancements.
Similarly, a prominent buy-now-pay-later service provider has publicly acknowledged replacing human roles with AI, further illustrating this trend. This shift highlights the growing reliance on AI to streamline operations and reduce costs, underscoring the broader movement towards automation in the industry.
The real-world impacts of these changes have sparked widespread concern among workers. Recent protests, including those by video game performers and actors, as well as nurses, underscore the anxiety surrounding AI’s role in job displacement. These events highlight the urgent need to address worker concerns and ensure that AI’s benefits do not come at the cost of job security.
Despite these challenges, Ms Mahzam remains optimistic about AI’s potential to enhance productivity and support workers. She emphasised that AI, when applied effectively, can significantly benefit both employees and employers. AI technologies can enhance data analysis, automate mundane tasks, and free up time for more meaningful work, leading to greater job satisfaction and productivity.
Addressing the potential of AI, Ms Mahzam stressed the importance of equipping the workforce with the necessary skills to adapt to this new era. The Government is committed to this goal through various initiatives. For existing workers, Job Transformation Maps (JTMs) have been developed to guide skills development and job redesign. These maps are complemented by training modules offering AI-related courses, which have already helped thousands of individuals become proficient in AI tools.
For those entering the AI field, several programmes are in place to support career development in roles such as AI Engineers and Data Scientists. These initiatives aim to provide comprehensive training and career pathways for individuals interested in AI.
Ms Mahzam also stressed the importance of democratising AI education to ensure that all segments of society have access to the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven workforce. By expanding AI education and creating accessible pathways, the Government aims to drive economic growth, reduce inequality, and ensure that AI technologies benefit all communities.
A proactive approach is essential, starting with integrating AI education into vocational training and preparing youths for the evolving job market. Inclusivity is key, and creating accessible learning opportunities will help bridge the skills gap and prepare the workforce for future challenges.
Ms Mahzam concluded by reiterating the need to embrace AI’s progress while addressing its challenges responsibly. The path forward involves harnessing AI’s potential to create an inclusive and equitable future. By investing in people and fostering partnerships, a world where innovation and inclusivity go hand-in-hand can be built, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the AI era.
