Minister of Communications, Fahmi Fadzil officiated the launch of the MCMC-Microsoft AI TEACH Program today (June 20). The programme, aimed at developing skills in artificial intelligence (AI) is part of a collaborative effort between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Microsoft Malaysia.
The initiative targets communities around the National Information Dissemination Centers (NADI), focusing on the B40 group, women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs). The ceremony also included the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MCMC and Microsoft, symbolising a partnership set to propel Malaysia’s digital future.
Addressing the audience, Fahmi highlighted AI’s critical role in the rapidly evolving technology landscape. Citing a comprehensive study by Price Waterhouse Cooper (PwC), he said that AI could contribute up to USD 15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, demonstrating its transformative potential across various sectors.
In Malaysia, AI is expected to enhance efficiency, drive innovation, and foster economic growth significantly by 2024. Fahmi emphasised the necessity of an inclusive and equitable approach to AI, as highlighted by the World Economic Forum (WEF), to ensure no group is left behind in this technological advancement.
The collaboration between MCMC and Microsoft exemplifies a public-private partnership poised to bring about substantial benefits. This partnership encompasses:
- Digital technology skills development, including AI, through various platforms like the MCMC-Microsoft AI TEACH program and capacity-building initiatives via the MCMC Academy.
- Encouraging responsible AI use, with the adoption of AI software like Microsoft M365 in MCMC and developing governance methods for responsible AI technology usage.
- Promoting inclusivity in AI access, particularly for vulnerable groups.
- Collaborative promotion of both parties’ initiatives through digital platforms and mass media.
Additionally, Fahmi addressed the importance of ethical AI usage, acknowledging the social and economic impacts of rapid digitalisation. He highlighted the government’s efforts to establish a regulatory framework to address AI technology’s ethical challenges. The AI Governance and Ethics Code (AIGE) under the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) plays a crucial role in this framework.
MCMC will also focus on vital AI sector policies and initiatives within the communications and multimedia industry. Fahmi added that this move is not just about keeping up with global trends but also about shaping a future where technology empowers human creativity, relationships, and communities.
AI TEACH Program Enhancing Skills and Employability
The AI TEACH program aims to enhance skills and employability, particularly for marginalised and vulnerable communities. At the ASEAN level, the program targets training and certifying 6,200 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) instructors in AI, aligning with Microsoft’s goal to bridge the AI skills gap.
In Malaysia, the program aims to benefit 1,200 TVET instructors in collaboration with strategic partners, including the Malaysia TVET Council, the Department of Human Resources, and the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO).
With MCMC’s involvement, the program is expected to benefit 1,600 community members near NADI, particularly vulnerable groups, by providing AI skills training and certification. Additionally, the program will increase the employability of 1,000 participants through the MyFutureJobs job matching initiative under PERKESO.
Participants will attend two-day physical classes before receiving certificates, covering four main modules: Introduction to AI, Introduction to Generative AI, Using AI to Enhance Employability, and Ethical Use of AI.
The pre-launch program, held earlier this month, saw 151 participants successfully complete the training, receiving positive feedback from the community. Participants from PWD organisations and youth from various PPR projects expressed satisfaction with the program, noting its benefits in exposing them to AI technology and enhancing their daily tasks.
