In a landmark move to future-proof Malaysia’s workforce, more than 6,700 individuals, including over 1,100 educators and 5,600 students, have completed the country’s first large-scale AI and cybersecurity training initiative targeted at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.
Led by local NGO SOLS Foundation, the Rakyat Digital – Digital Vocational Education and Training (DVET) programme marks a significant milestone in digital upskilling efforts in the region. Delivered in collaboration with IBM SkillsBuild and supported by the Ministry of Digital Malaysia and MyDIGITAL Corporation, the initiative spanned 230 colleges across Peninsular Malaysia, with a strong emphasis on institutions serving students from the B40 income group.
The programme launch was officiated on Wednesday by Deputy Secretary General (Digital Development) of the Ministry of Digital Malaysia, Ma Sivanesan a/l Marimuthu @ Muthiah, alongside representatives from MyDIGITAL Corporation, IBM, the Ministry of Human Resources, and SOLS Foundation.
“This isn’t just a training programme. It is a powerful step toward ensuring no educator or student is left behind in the digital age,” said Daniela Strîmbei, executive director of SOLS Foundation. “By reaching those who need it most and equipping them with real, future-ready skills, we are proving that Malaysia not only believes in inclusive innovation but is ready to lead in AI education across the region.”
Participants received globally recognised digital credentials via IBM’s SkillsBuild platform. Internal programme data revealed that 95 per cent of learners found the training relevant and impactful, while 86 per cent reported increased confidence in applying AI tools in academic or workplace settings. Notably, 96 per cent said they felt motivated to continue learning in the digital field.
The regional impact was especially evident in Penang, which recorded the highest turnout with 150 participants. The event was officiated by Jagdeep Singh Deo, Penang State Executive Councillor for Human Capital Development, Science, and Technology. His presence underscored the northern state’s commitment to workforce development in the digital economy.
“Workshops like these spark new ways of thinking,” said Mohair Nizam Bin Johari, a TVET lecturer from Melaka who completed the course. “I now have the skills and confidence to integrate AI into my work—something I never thought would be within reach. It is a game-changer not just for me, but for my students.”
The initiative aligns closely with national strategies, including the Malaysia MADANI vision, the MyDIGITAL Blueprint, and the government’s Human Capital Development Strategic Framework. Through its systemic design and focus on inclusion, the Rakyat Digital – DVET programme aims to close digital skill gaps and ensure equitable access to emerging technologies for all Malaysians.
The success of the programme was enabled by a wide-ranging collaboration. SOLS Foundation led the curriculum design, training delivery, and monitoring; IBM provided the core training modules and certification platform; the Ministry of Digital ensured national policy alignment; and MyDIGITAL facilitated cross-agency coordination. The Ministry of Human Resources played a key role in mobilising educators, while state-level support, such as in Penang, drove grassroots participation.
With the inaugural cohort now certified, SOLS Foundation and its partners are exploring potential scale-ups and regional replications. As AI and cybersecurity continue to redefine the future of work across Southeast Asia, Malaysia’s proactive approach to embedding these competencies in its vocational education system could serve as a blueprint for neighbouring countries. 