Malaysia is working towards nurturing more AI talent as the world prepares for artificial intelligence to revolutionize various aspects of life. Science, Technology & Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang stated that the National AI Roadmap 2021-2025 aims to provide sufficient training to develop the necessary skillsets for AI innovations in Malaysia. Chang emphasized the importance of talent in becoming an AI-savvy nation, stating that the country currently lacks enough skilled individuals.
The National AI Roadmap 2021-2025 defines AI talent as individuals possessing the technical competencies required to strategize, develop, maintain, and manage AI solutions. This includes data scientists, AI developers, researchers, and engineers. The ministry plans to implement strategies that encourage collaboration between industry leaders and academicians to train AI talent.
Recent advancements in generative AI applications like ChatGPT and Dall-E have prompted increased investments in AI. For instance, Microsoft invested $10 billion into OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, while Google invested $300 million into AI firm Anthropic. Nevertheless, caution is needed when utilizing AI, as biases in AI decisions, security concerns, respect for personal data privacy, and ethical dilemmas still persist.
Tan Sri Datuk Low Kian Chuan, President of ACCCIM, emphasized the need for the government, industry, and workforce to be prepared for the changes brought about by AI. Low stressed the importance of conducting research on the impact of AI among various sectors, age groups, genders, educational levels, and socio-economic groups. Targeted strategies based on this analysis can address potential job displacement. Low also highlighted the pivotal role of education systems, learning institutes, and training institutions in maximizing opportunities and minimizing risks associated with AI.
Minister Chang dismissed the notion that AI will replace human jobs, although certain labor-intensive tasks or jobs currently outsourced to foreign workers may be automated. He reiterated that AI can create job opportunities, emphasizing the need for talent to control and maintain AI systems. Chang drew parallels to fears during the industrial revolution, stating that people eventually adapt and discover new opportunities.
During the AI Unplugged conference, various AI-powered innovations were showcased. Mimos presented the Harvest-Ready Tree Detection platform, which uses computer vision analysis to detect loose fruitlets in palm oil plantations, alerting workers when trees are ready for harvest. Mimos is currently testing the technology in Selangor. Mimos’ Smart Nation Technologies is also exploring the utilization of AI in sentiment analysis based on social media data and code generation.
Start-up Wise AI featured its Virtual Human technology, which digitizes individuals to create AI-powered versions of themselves. Users can provide photos and voice recordings to create a digital avatar that functions like an AI-enhanced voice assistant. The technology aims to assist with influencer marketing and online tasks.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
