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Malaysia targets 30,000 AI-skilled graduates by 2030, says education ministry

Malaysia's Ministry of Higher Education is moving to significantly expand the pipeline of artificial intelligence specialists, aiming to produce 30,000 graduates with AI expertise over the next six years to strengthen the country's competitive position in the digital economy.

LSN Malaysia · 8 October 2026

The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) has set an ambitious target to graduate 30,000 professionals skilled in artificial intelligence by 2030, positioning the qualification as essential to meeting Malaysia's future workforce requirements in the rapidly evolving digital sector.

The initiative reflects growing recognition among policymakers that artificial intelligence competency will be critical as businesses across industries increasingly adopt automation and data-driven technologies. The target encompasses graduates from various educational pathways, from degree programmes to vocational training, underscoring MOHE's commitment to building capabilities at multiple skill levels.

The push comes as governments across Southeast Asia intensify efforts to develop homegrown technical talent rather than relying solely on foreign expertise. By expanding the supply of AI-trained professionals, Malaysia aims to reduce skills gaps and create employment opportunities in emerging technology sectors.

MOHE's announcement signals the ministry's determination to align Malaysia's higher education output with industry demands and economic development priorities. The timeline through 2030 provides institutions with a clear benchmark for curriculum development and resource allocation in artificial intelligence and related fields.