KUALA LUMPUR: The government of Malaysia is being urged to increase investment in artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies, skills development, and economic inclusivity in the upcoming Budget 2025, according to Learning Edge, a talent development organization. Its founder, Perthpal Singh Khosa, emphasized that for Malaysia to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market, it is essential to provide all Malaysians with access to opportunities in the new digital landscape.
Khosa highlighted the need to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas, ensuring fair access to education and supporting lifelong learning. He proposed specific areas for investment, including industry-relevant technical and vocational education (TVET), digital education, and leadership programs, stressing that strategic budget allocations are necessary to bolster human capital development.
He expressed concern that some current initiatives are not producing the skilled professionals needed for the country’s advancement. Khosa stated, “The changes we will witness in the next three to five years will be faster and more transformative than the past decade. AI is going to revolutionize industries, and those who aren't prepared will be left behind.”
As an advocate for talent development, he asserted that a well-funded, industry-relevant TVET system is crucial for equipping individuals with specialized skills necessary for competitiveness in sectors like manufacturing and emerging industries such as green technology.
Khosa also highlighted the necessity of significant investments in digital education to ensure the next generation possesses digital fluency as automation and AI continue to redefine industries. He called for funding in leadership development programs at all levels, as effective leaders inspire productivity.
Moreover, he stressed the importance of substantial investments in digital infrastructure to enhance service delivery and fully integrate AI and automation into operations. He advocated for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, urging the involvement of industry experts in policy-making.
While increasing funding in specific areas is vital for talent development, Khosa called for greater transparency regarding the disbursement of financial grants and improved quality control in Human Resource Development Corporation-funded training programs. He concluded, “We must ensure that the programs we invest in deliver results. Some current training initiatives are failing to produce the skilled professionals we need.”