JTM courses now cover AI, IoT, drones, EVs and hydrogen tech, as KESUMA works to reduce job displacement risks for low- and semi-skilled workers.
KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 74,332 participants have taken part in upskilling and reskilling programmes conducted by the Department of Manpower (JTM) as of August 31, aimed at helping the workforce adapt to automation and artificial intelligence (AI).
Deputy Human Resources Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan said HRD Corp had also approved 19,084 training places with financial assistance totalling RM47.67 million as of August this year.
He noted that this is among the initiatives by the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA) through its agencies to address the risks of job displacement and changes in employment resulting from the adoption of automation and AI, particularly among low- and semi-skilled workers.
“JTM offers short-term, modular, and customised training courses tailored to industry needs. The curriculum has been strengthened by incorporating elements of new skills and technologies such as AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), automation systems, drone technology, green technology, electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen technology, and entrepreneurship.
“Employers registered with HRD Corp can utilize their levies to fund upskilling, reskilling, and cross-skilling programmes,” he said in response to a question from Datuk Idris Ahmad (PN-Bagan Serai) regarding the government’s strategies and actions to address the risks of job displacement and transformation caused by automation and AI, during the Dewan Rakyat session today.
Khairul Firdaus added that the Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) also provides funding for training fees and allowances through the Skim LINDUNG Kerjaya (Career Protection Scheme) to help workers acquire new skills and enhance their employability.
“Effective October 1, 2026, the training fee funding under the scheme will be increased from a maximum of RM3,000 to RM7,000,” he said.
Meanwhile, the MyMahir AI Tour (JAM) and JAMx programmes, managed by Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad, have benefited over 7,971 participants by providing practical exposure to AI applications for boosting productivity and work efficiency.
Khairul Firdaus also shared an example of AI implementation by Farm Fresh Berhad to monitor product expiry dates an initiative involving an estimated investment of RM14 million that successfully reduced customer complaints by 30 per cent thereby highlighting the importance of training in helping workers adapt to technological changes.