Malaysia Pledges Human-Centred AI Future, Prioritises Workers Over Automation
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that artificial intelligence (AI) enhances opportunities for workers rather than replacing them, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said at the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) on Tuesday.
Addressing delegates at the global gathering, Ramanan described AI as more than a technological breakthrough, calling it a significant social, economic and moral turning point that must remain focused on human dignity, inclusivity and shared prosperity.
“Malaysia believes AI must serve people, not replace them,” he said. “The future should not belong solely to algorithms, machines or markets but to people.”
With a workforce exceeding 17 million, Ramanan said the government’s priority is to ensure that workers are equipped with the skills and protections needed to succeed in an increasingly AI-driven economy.
To prepare the workforce for digital transformation, Malaysia has institutionalised AI and digital technology training through the Centre for Instructor and Advanced Skill Training (CIAST), enabling workers to adapt to evolving industry requirements.
The minister also announced enhanced incentives to accelerate AI adoption among businesses. Under the MyMahir–National AI Council for Industry ecosystem, employers will be eligible for an additional 50 per cent tax deduction on qualifying AI and cybersecurity training expenses.
In addition, the nationwide Jelajah AI MyMahir programme will be expanded to improve AI literacy and encourage the practical use of emerging technologies across the country.
Highlighting Malaysia’s progress in employment services, Ramanan said the AI-powered MYFutureJobs platform has successfully facilitated 1.49 million job placements since 2020. The platform has matched 3.3 million registered job seekers with 13.4 million job vacancies through its comprehensive skills-based database.
Malaysia is also leveraging technology to strengthen workers’ rights and industrial justice. The Industrial Court has begun adopting AI-assisted technologies and real-time digital recording systems, while labour courts nationwide are being equipped with similar systems in phases.
Ramanan stressed that workplace safety and health remain central to the government’s agenda. The upcoming Occupational Safety and Health Master Plan 2026–2030 will address emerging risks associated with AI, automation and digitalisation.
At the same time, Malaysia continues to expand social protection measures for workers. Nearly 10 million formal sector employees are now covered under the Social Security Organisation’s (PERKESO) 24-hour injury protection scheme, extending coverage beyond the workplace for the first time since its introduction in 1969.
The minister said these initiatives reflect Malaysia’s broader vision of embracing technological innovation while safeguarding workers’ welfare, rights and long-term economic security.
“AI should be a tool that empowers people, creates opportunities and improves livelihoods not one that leaves workers behind,” he added.