Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has introduced the "Artificial Intelligence (AI) Programme for the People" with the aim of improving digital literacy among Malaysians. Originally designed to reach three million users within a year, Anwar, during the launch, adjusted the target by directing the Higher Education and Education Ministries to expedite the initiation of the platform. Similar to newly introduced applications, failure to promptly adopt and adapt to it may result in falling behind. The Prime Minister emphasized that AI, like other emerging technologies, is a domain that needs to be mastered and embraced swiftly to keep pace with the rapid changes it imposes on us.
"If the implementation of the AI for the People application begins today and universities and schools take three months for deliberation and planning, with an additional six months for students to actively participate, we will find ourselves a year behind. I urge UPM (University Putra Malaysia) and other academic institutions to ensure the inclusive involvement of all students, especially at the university level, in this program. It shouldn't be limited to IT students but should encompass various ministries and public service departments", remarked Anwar during the launch at UPM. The "AI Programme for the People" or "AI Untuk Rakyat" is an online self-learning platform designed to educate Malaysians about AI. The program is accessible to all Malaysians free of charge and is provided in four languages: Malay, English, Mandarin, and Tamil.
The program consists of two modules, namely "AI Aware" and "AI Appreciate", structured for flexible self-learning. Participants can complete the program at their own pace, with an estimated completion time of four hours. Anwar mentioned his intention for Cabinet members to undergo the course and plans to inquire about it during meetings with ministers. Meanwhile, Rafizi Ramli, the Economy Minister overseeing the project, highlighted the potential of leveraging generative AI to generate approximately US$113.4 billion (RM525.04 billion), equivalent to 25% of Malaysia's GDP. Rafizi emphasized that the program signifies a new governmental initiative to address the digital literacy gap within the population.
