Malaysia: Malaysia's growing investments in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and hyperscale data centres are driving demand for a highly skilled information and communications technology (ICT) workforce, says Deputy Minister of Human Resources Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Human Resources (Kesuma) is committed to strengthening Malaysia's workforce by equipping Malaysians with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digital and AI-driven economy. Khairul Firdaus emphasized the importance of preparing Malaysians not only for current job markets but also for high-value careers in the future.

He stated, "Our long-term competitiveness depends on our ability to develop Malaysians with the knowledge, technical expertise and professional competencies needed to seize these opportunities. Technology can be imported. Buildings can be constructed... Equipment can be purchased. But highly skilled talent must be nurtured. This is where Kesuma plays an important role," while officiating the two-day BICSI Southeast Asia Conference and Exhibition Malaysia 2026.

The conference gathered ICT infrastructure professionals, engineers, consultants, technology providers, policymakers, and business leaders from across Southeast Asia. The discussions focused on AI-ready infrastructure, advanced fibre connectivity, structured cabling, edge computing, cybersecurity, smart buildings, and sustainable digital infrastructure.

Khairul Firdaus noted that initiatives such as TalentCorp's Jelajah AI MyMahir (JAM) programme are equipping Malaysians with practical AI knowledge and industry-relevant digital skills. He highlighted the significance of skilled individuals behind AI applications and infrastructure, stating, "Behind every data centre, every intelligent building, every fibre network and every AI application is something more important, which is skilled people. Infrastructure enables innovation and talent sustains it."

The conference aimed to emphasize not just technology but also the development of people who will design, build, secure, operate, and improve the digital economy of the future.