KUALA LUMPUR: Artificial intelligence (AI) will not replace human workers but instead enhance their capabilities and create new opportunities, according to Human Resources Minister Steven Sim.
Speaking at the launch of OCBC Malaysia’s flagship “Grow Your Way with MOBI” festival, Sim said AI is opening pathways for high-skilled prospects and will be a game changer for the future of work.
“Conventional job scopes may face risks from AI, digitalisation and green technology, but the transformation would enable the workforce to embrace quick and smarter decision-making across industries,” he said.
Sim stressed the importance of embracing AI alongside its opportunities. “It is good to see OCBC Malaysia leading the way for its employees and the industry. We need to future-proof ourselves and adapt to changes with AI. There is also a need for a clear framework to govern the ethical and legal scopes of AI to ensure it is harnessed in a correct manner,” he added.
MOBI, an AI-powered career development tool, can recommend learning courses, gig projects and career interest areas depending on individual growth plans.
OCBC’s Investment in People Development
The festival forms part of OCBC Group’s wider workforce development strategy, also rolled out in Singapore, China and Indonesia.
“OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Bhd is investing more than RM10 million a year in people development programmes, with a focus on AI to reskill and upskill, as part of its long-term workforce strategy,” said OCBC Malaysia chief executive officer Tan Chor Sen.
The investment will continue in the coming years to prepare its 5,000-strong workforce for rapid AI-driven changes, he added.
Tan said nearly 3,890 employees have already participated in AI learning, with 12,500 course completions recorded to date. The bank currently offers close to 480 AI programmes, ranging from foundational courses to advanced topics such as generative AI and agentic AI.
Generative AI Integrated into Daily Operations
OCBC Malaysia has embedded three generative AI platforms — ChatGPT, OpenAI and Copilot — into its operations to boost productivity and efficiency across the organisation.
“AI is rapidly transforming the world and OCBC Malaysia is committed to ensuring our people are well-equipped to harness this technology effectively to innovate and work efficiently,” said Tan.
As part of its longer-term commitment to talent development, OCBC Malaysia will also sponsor two scholarships next year for students pursuing AI-related disciplines. “If needed, we will give more. This is our way of supporting Malaysia in building the pipeline for the next generation of AI talent,” Tan said.
