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The initiative, which is supported by MDEC, alongside IBM’s collaboration with MyDigital under Rakyat Digital Initiative, aims to advance Malaysia’s ambition to build an inclusive, AI-ready workforce
 

Kuala Lumpur, 17 July 2026, IBM Malaysia, through IBM SkillsBuild, and Biji-biji Initiative (BBI) today announced a strategic collaboration to equip 41,000 students, youth and adult learners across Malaysia with free training in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital skills by the end of 2026. The initiative aims to strengthen Malaysia’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) talent pipeline by equipping learners with in-demand technology skills, expanding access to digital job opportunities, and supporting the development of a future-ready workforce for Malaysia's digital economy.

The collaboration builds on IBM’s global commitment to skill 30 million people by 2030, including 2 million learners in AI by the end of 2026. By combining IBM SkillsBuild’s free AI and digital learning resources with BBI’s community reach and industry engagement, the initiative is designed to connect learners across Malaysia with practical training and clearer pathways into the digital economy. As part of the collaboration, BBI will help bridge talent and opportunity through two complementary talent development tracks.

The first track, delivered through IBM SkillsBuild with the support of Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), will introduce high school students to the fundamentals of AI through a structured learning journey that combines theory and real-world industry use case examples. By exposing students to emerging technologies early, the program aims to inspire future innovators and build a stronger pipeline of AI-ready talent.

Additionally, IBM collaborates with MyDigital Corporation through the Rakyat Digital initiative to advance digital and AI skills among Malaysians. This collaboration supports Malaysia's broader digital agenda and contributes to the nation's aspiration to become an inclusive and sustainable AI nation by 2030.

The collaboration comes as organizations across Malaysia increasingly prioritize AI skills.  According to the 2026 IBM CEO Study, 77% of CEOs surveyed believe talent and technology leadership roles are converging, signalling a growing need to align workforce development with technology adoption to fully realize the value of AI.

"Artificial intelligence is becoming a key driver of innovation, productivity, and economic growth. Expanding access to quality AI and digital skills development is therefore essential to ensuring that all Malaysians can participate meaningfully in the digital economy. The collaboration between IBM and Biji-biji Initiative complements our national digital agenda and reinforces our commitment to building an inclusive, digitally skilled society in support of Malaysia's aspiration to become an AI Nation by 2030," said YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, Malaysia

The second track will equip TVET learners and adult workforce participants with industry-relevant skills in Agentic AI, software development, and web development. Through a dedicated industry symposium, BBI will showcase industry-ready AI and digital talent from TVET institutions to IBM's clients and partners, helping create pathways to employment while enabling organizations to access a new generation of skilled technology professionals.

"One of the key priorities of the National TVET agenda is ensuring that skills development remains responsive to the evolving needs of industry, particularly in high-growth areas such as artificial intelligence and digital technologies. Through this collaboration, IBM and Biji-biji Initiative are contributing to that effort by equipping learners with industry-relevant competencies and strengthening pathways from training to employment in Malaysia's economy," said Ts. Dr. Azmir Yunus, Head of Secretariat, National TVET Council of Malaysia

"AI is changing the skills people need across every industry, and expanding access to practical AI education is essential to preparing the workforce of the future. Through our collaboration with Biji-biji Initiative, MDEC and MyDigital, IBM is strengthening the nation's digital readiness and helping build a workforce that will drive Malaysia's future growth, innovation, and competitiveness," said Justina Nixon-Saintil, VP and Chief Impact Officer, IBM Corporate Social Responsibility

"Our mission is to transform potential into opportunity through education, skills, and access. Through our collaboration with IBM, we are equipping more learners with the practical AI and digital capabilities needed in today's workforce. By aligning training with industry needs and connecting learners directly with employers, we are helping bridge the digital skills gap, unlock career opportunities, and foster a more inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem that supports Malaysia's future workforce needs," said Rashvin Pal Singh, Group CEO of Biji-biji Initiative.

The collaboration between IBM and Biji-biji Initiative is expected to benefit both learners and industry stakeholders by addressing the increasing demand for digital talent, particularly in AI-driven roles. It also reinforces the importance of public-private collaboration in advancing workforce development and helping ensure that more learners can participate in Malaysia’s digital transformation journey.

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About IBM SkillsBuild

IBM SkillsBuild is a free education program aimed at increasing access to technology education. Through the program, IBM supports adult learners, high school and university students, and faculty, to develop valuable new skills and access career opportunities. The program includes an online platform that is complemented by customized practical learning experiences delivered in collaboration with a global network of partners.

The open version of IBM SkillsBuild is an online platform offering over 1,000 courses in 20 languages on AI, sustainability, cybersecurity, data analysis, cloud computing, and many other technical disciplines — as well as in workplace skills such as design thinking. Participants can earn IBM-branded digital credentials that are recognized by the market.

The enhanced version of IBM SkillsBuild may also include workshops, expert conversations with IBM coaches and mentors, project-based learning, access to IBM software, specialized support from partners through the learning process, and connection to career opportunities. Visit skillsbuild.org to learn more.

About Biji-biji Initiative

Biji-biji Initiative is a Malaysian social impact organization that designs and delivers programs focused on talent development, social innovation, and sustainable growth across Malaysia and ASEAN. Through partnerships with government agencies, corporations, educational institutions, and community organizations, Biji-biji equips changemakers, youth, and underserved communities with access to knowledge, technology, networks, and opportunities that improve livelihoods and create lasting impact. Since its establishment in 2013, Biji-biji has nurtured more than 836,000 individuals and supported over 130 projects through initiatives spanning digital skills, AI readiness, workforce development, ESG leadership, and social entrepreneurship.

Media Contact
Trista Efendi
External Relations Leader, IBM Malaysia
trista.efendi@ibm.com