The Youth and Sports Ministry will broaden opportunities for artificial intelligence (AI) upskilling among young Malaysians to ensure all youth groups can keep pace with rapid technological advancement.
Its Minister, Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari, said the initiative would be carried out through the existing youth development ecosystem, alongside strategic partnerships with other ministries, government agencies, educational institutions, industry players and communities.
He said access to AI knowledge and skills should not be limited to youths from certain backgrounds, particularly as the technology continues to transform the way people study, work and conduct business.
“With the rapid development of AI technology, we need to ensure there is no gap between youths who have access to and skills in AI and those who are left behind by the current wave of change.
“Opportunities to master the technology must be available to all young people, regardless of their background,” he said in a statement today.
Mohammed Taufiq also welcomed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement in his 2026 National Day Address on efforts to widen youth access to AI technology.
Under the AI for the People programme, Malaysians aged between 18 and 30 can participate, with an initial target of 100,000 participants.
Those who complete the AI learning modules through the Rakyat Digital platform will also receive free three-month subscriptions to leading AI applications beginning September 1.
The minister described the programme as a strategic national investment aimed at producing a knowledgeable, skilled and competitive generation capable of adapting to changes in the economy and employment landscape.
“Young Malaysians should not merely be technology users, but must also be empowered to become technology creators and leaders.
“Mastering AI needs to translate into higher productivity, the creation of high-value jobs, entrepreneurship and innovative solutions to challenges faced by society and the country,” he said.
He also urged young Malaysians to explore and use AI productively and responsibly, while remaining mindful of security, privacy and information integrity.
