“Humanising” AI in Malaysian Workforce

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The transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries across the globe, and Malaysia is seizing this moment to drive change. The government is actively fostering partnerships with industry leaders and strengthening collaboration among all stakeholders, including academia and industry players, to unlock AI’s full potential. By cultivating these alliances, Malaysia is not only setting its sights on increased productivity and economic growth but also positioning itself as a leader in AI-driven innovation in Southeast Asia. However, the rapid integration of AI technologies also brings to the forefront significant concerns, particularly for the Malaysian workforce.

A prevalent issue is the fear among employees that AI will “take over their jobs.” This anxiety is especially common

among senior workers who may be less familiar with emerging technologies. The rise of AI platforms such as ChatGPT, Microsoft Co-Pilot, and Google Bard has intensified these concerns, as many employees are facing a harsh reality check with the increasing automation of tasks. For employers, the appeal of AI lies in its promise of quick results and lower operational costs, making AI adoption an attractive strategy. This situation has created a “fear of missing out” (FOMO) on both sides employees worry about being replaced by technology, while employers fear being left behind if they do not embrace AI advancements.

To mitigate these challenges, it is crucial to promote a “humanising AI” culture within organisations. Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for human labour, employers should encourage the workforce to see AI as a tool that can enhance their daily work, enabling them to deliver more efficient and innovative results. Organisations should invest in upskilling their employees by providing AI-related training that equips them with the necessary skills to leverage these technologies effectively. For example, courses focusing on AI-enhanced productivity tools, data analytics, or even programming AI systems can prove invaluable. This proactive approach not only benefits the company but also empowers employees to develop new competencies that open doors to emerging roles such as “AI Prompters,” “AI Managers,” and “AI Data Analysts” positions that are yet to be widely recognised but hold significant potential for the future.

For employees, it is imperative to stay informed about the latest AI developments and continuously upgrade their skills. Those who adapt and embrace AI will find that it serves as an enabler rather than a threat. By familiarising themselves with AI tools and integrating these technologies into their daily workflows, employees can gain a competitive advantage in the evolving job market. This approach will not only alleviate fears but also create a more harmonious and productive working environment where AI complements human expertise.

It is worth noting that AI will not completely replace human roles at least not for some years to come. The technology still requires human intervention for its development, refinement, and ongoing management. In essence, AI is a tool that extends our capabilities, much like an assistant with “super skills” that enhances our productivity and problem-solving abilities. By treating AI as a collaborative partner rather than a competitor, the workforce can harness its benefits without compromising human value.

For Malaysia to fully realise its ambitions in the AI space, it is time for employers and employees to step out of their respective comfort zones and become “AI-fide” confident and capable in integrating AI into the workplace. This transformation demands a collective mindset shift towards lifelong learning and adaptability, which will enable us to not just survive, but thrive in this AI-driven era.