Government targets 500,000 job opportunities through AI plans
The 13th Malaysia Plan aims for skilled jobs to account for 35% of the workforce by 2030, compared with 30.1% in 2025.
Malaysia is targeting 500,000 job opportunities through plans linked to artificial intelligence (AI), Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir told the Dewan Rakyat on Oct 14. He said workforce skills would need to be upgraded as labour market requirements change.
Akmal Nasrullah said AI, automation and digitalisation offered scope to reshape the economy by developing high-growth, high-value (HGHV) industries and strategic sectors. He cited workforce figures showing that semi-skilled roles accounted for 57%, while low-skilled occupations represented 12.9%.
Under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), the government wants skilled employment to reach 35% of the workforce by 2030, against 30.1% in 2025. The minister said national development policies incorporated talent needs arising from technological change.
He also cited findings from Talent Corporation Malaysia Bhd's November 2024 study. It found that adapting skills would keep 90% of existing jobs relevant, while 10% faced automation or changes to job functions associated with AI, digitalisation and the green economy.
To limit the risk of widespread job losses, Akmal Nasrullah said the government would continue strengthening certification, upskilling and reskilling programmes. It would also deepen collaboration among industry, academia and the public sector.
That collaboration includes the MyMahir Future Skills Talent Council (MyMahir FSTC). The minister said 17 MyMahir FSTCs had been set up, with a different industry player chairing each council.
