KUALA LUMPUR: The Digital Ministry is set to launch a new online learning platform, 'Digital People', on December 12, following the success of its 'AI for the People' programme.
Aimed at equipping Malaysians with essential digital skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital economy, Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong said the new platform allows everyone to learn new knowledge online.
"The platform offers the public general knowledge on new technologies, including AI, and serves as an interactive learning channel to broaden digital technology understanding and develop new talent according to specific models.
"The digital ministry also ensures AI learning is developed holistically and inclusively across all levels, including educational institutions, the private sector, and the government.
"Through the newly established National AI Office (NAIO), the digital ministry will collaborate with these entities to tailor AI learning models for targeted groups," he said during the question and answer session at the Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday (Dec 11).
He was addressing questions from Tan Kar Hing (PH-Gopeng) about the success of the 'AI for the People' programme and the readiness of the AI learning ecosystem in educational institutions, the private sector, and the government.
Wilson Ugak said the 'AI for the People' programme has reached 1.3 million participants, including students, professionals, and government officials.
"This aligns with Malaysia's digital economy plan and IR 4.0 strategy, focusing on building a technologically literate population, fostering innovation, and bridging digital skill gaps."
He noted that the upcoming 'Digital People' platform will offer interactive learning opportunities, providing general knowledge on new technologies such as AI.
"It will serve as a channel to broaden public understanding of digital technology and develop new talent according to specific models.
"The platform will provide free courses in both Malay and English, making online learning resources easily accessible to all.
"We are committed to ensuring AI learning is developed holistically and inclusively across educational institutions, the private sector, and the government," he said.
In response to an additional question from Tan, Wilson Ugak highlighted Malaysia's achievements in global digital competitiveness, stating, "Malaysia currently ranks within the top 50 in several international indices.
For instance, we are 36th in 2024 with a score of 65.5% in the IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking among 67 countries."
He also said the ministry is implementing programmes focusing on change management and upskilling, such as the Executive Digital Leadership and Digital Citizen programmes, to enhance the capabilities of public service officers.
"The Executive Digital Leadership programme aims to create action plans for digital initiatives applicable in ministries through our GovTech. For 2025, the ministry targets 500 participants, including all chief digital officers from ministries, top management, and the private sector," he said.
