Malaysia has made the promotion of artificial intelligence literacy a priority with the launch of the “AI for Rakyat” program. This initiative, unveiled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is the result of a collaboration between the Economic Ministry and tech giant Intel. It aims to familiarize people with AI technology through a four-hour course available in four languages: Bahasa Malaysia, English, Mandarin, and Tamil, consisting of two modules – “AI Aware” and “AI Appreciate”.
The first module, “AI Aware,” serves as an introductory course to AI, dispelling common misconceptions about the technology. On the other hand, “AI Appreciate” delves deeper into real-world AI applications, exploring ethical and responsible aspects of the technology. These lessons are presented through text, videos, and quizzes to test participants’ understanding of the concepts. Additionally, recorded audio and Braille versions of the modules are available for download and printing to enhance accessibility.
Shee Tze Jin, an AI and machine learning specialist at Taylor’s University, believes that the program will help dispel myths about AI and improve public perception of the technology. The program covers AI concepts such as computer vision, focusing on machines’ ability to interpret and understand visual information, and natural language processing, which addresses how machines comprehend and interact with human language.
Participants who complete the program will receive two digital badges for each module, which can be shared on social media. However, Shee believes that the program may not be sufficient for comprehensive AI literacy, as it requires practical experience, ethics, diverse subfield understanding, and active community engagement.
Economic Minister Rafizi Ramli emphasized the goal of positioning Malaysia as a global and regional hub for AI during the AI for Rakyat inauguration ceremony. According to Rafizi, there is a potential to generate US$113.4bil (RM534.96bil) in Malaysia if AI technology is used in all sectors, which is a quarter of the country’s gross domestic product.
Anwar Ibrahim also highlighted the importance of addressing the digital divide and ensuring that no one is left behind through programs like AI for Rakyat. This comes in light of the government’s aim to have one million Malaysians achieve mastery in AI skills within three years, as announced by Rafizi. Additionally, RM20 million was allocated for the establishment of an AI faculty at the University of Technology Malaysia during the presentation of the 2024 Budget in October last year. While, last June, the Higher Education Ministry announced that the use of ChatGPT would not be restricted at institutes of higher education.
