KUALA LUMPUR: Academic qualifications alone are no longer enough for graduates in a world being reshaped by artificial intelligence (AI), Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said.
He said graduates must also possess critical thinking, digital skills and strong values to shape change rather than merely adapt to it.
"Our graduates must also possess critical thinking, creativity and strong communication skills. They must have digital and AI literacy.
"They must be able to solve complex problems, and they must have the courage to keep learning throughout their lives," he said in his welcoming remarks at iFUTURE 2026 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur today.
Zambry said this year's programme, the third organised by the Higher Education Ministry since 2024, brought together students from 58 countries.
Also present was Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who officiated at the event.
"I am confident that many of those present here tonight will one day emerge as leaders in their respective countries," he said.
Zambry said universities must also nurture integrity, empathy, resilience and social responsibility among students.
"Technology may expand our capabilities. But character must guide its use. Knowledge may create opportunities. But values determine how those opportunities are used.
"Our goal is clear. We want graduates who are technologically competent, intellectually curious and grounded in human values," he said.
He thanked Anwar for the government's support for higher education under Budget 2027.
"This support is an important investment in Malaysia's human capital, national competitiveness and future prosperity," he said.
Zambry said the budget's theme, "Reaching for the Skies, While Anchored on Our Values", reflected the balance the ministry sought to achieve in higher education.
Under the 2027 Budget, tabled on Friday, the Education Ministry received the largest allocation, at nearly RM69 billion.
"We want our students to reach for the sky, but never lose sight of the communities that shaped them," he said.
Zambry said Anwar's presence at the event showed that the aspirations of young people were a national priority.
"Our young people are not merely the leaders of tomorrow. They are partners in building Malaysia today," he said.
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