KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 16): Local learning institutions are encouraged to introduce more fast-paced courses and training such as micro-credential programmes amid a rapidly evolving job market shaped by artificial intelligence (AI).
Fast-track courses are essential to address challenges from technological disruption while fostering a future-ready workforce, said Chow Sang Hoe, managing partner of Ernst & Young Consulting. Micro-credential programmes are now mostly offered by foreign institutions due to the high cost, he noted.
"We encourage micro-credentials but it is expensive because it's not offered by [local institutions],” he said. “If local universities step up to offer these programmes, it will create greater access for the local workforce.”
Chow was speaking to The Edge after the signing ceremony of a collaboration between Ernst & Young and University Malaya (UM).
“Something that I learned 10 years ago may not be relevant anymore,” he said, “so I need to unlearn, throw away, and learn new things”.
Study unveiled by Talent Corporation Malaysia Bhd last year showed that some 620,000 jobs across 10 key sectors of the Malaysian economy are at risk of convergence or displacement if they do not reskill or pivot to an adjacent role from the impact of AI, digital technology, and the green economy.
The industry often perceives AI as “scary" though the landscape has shifted significantly over the years, with increasing demand for AI knowledge and skills across industries, according to Associate Professor Dr Norisma Idris from UM's faculty of computer science and information technology.
“Now is the time to leverage this trend,” she said. “It is not a limitation but an opportunity to upskill the workforce.”
On Thursday, Ernst & Young and UM signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on enhancing AI course development and fostering knowledge exchange.
The MOU provides UM, Malaysia’s top-ranked university, access to Ernst & Young’s network of consultants and global resources.
“This MOU is a forward-thinking effort aimed at nurturing future AI talent who can contribute valuable advancements to Malaysia's economy,” said Ernst & Young Malaysia's AI, data and technology leader Adrian Chew.
For UM’s Norisma, the partnership will allow students to gain real-world experience with Ernst & Young’s consulting teams while ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant and robust through professional exchanges.
“Our interns are exposed to the entire AI process, from data preparation and cleansing to building dashboards and making decisions,” she added.