AS artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the way people work, learn and do business, a bank is taking a bold step beyond technology adoption to focus on empowering people to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world.
Hong Leong Assurance (HLA), in collaboration with Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), has launched a practical AI-learning programme as part of its ongoing commitment to developing talent, fostering innovation and preparing people for the future of work.
HLA will also host complimentary public AI-learning sessions, starting on Sept 26, by extending the benefits of AI education beyond its workforce to the wider Malaysian community.
The session will help participants unlock the practical value of AI in their everyday work, from improving communication and productivity to working more efficiently and effectively.
Participants will gain actionable techniques, ready-to-use prompts and practical knowledge that can be applied immediately.
HLA group managing director and chief executive officer Loh Guat Lan said, “We believe our greatest investment is in our people.
“While AI is transforming industries and changing how we work, we see it not as a replacement for human capabilities, but as a tool to amplify them.
“This collaboration with UTAR is about making AI practical, accessible and relevant.
“We want our agents, employees and future talent to develop the confidence and skills to use AI effectively, while remaining adaptable and competitive in a rapidly evolving workplace.
“By investing in these capabilities today, we are investing in the future success of our people,” he said in a statement.
While AI courses and tutorials were widely available today, most start by explaining what AI is, how large language models work or the basics of prompt writing.
The HLA-UTAR programme takes a different approach by focusing on how AI can be applied to real workplace challenges and everyday tasks.
Developed with UTAR’s expertise in applied learning, the programme is built around practical scenarios that enable participants to put AI to work immediately, whether in communication, planning, content creation or decision-making.
UTAR president Prof Datuk Dr Ewe Hong Tat said, “Universities and industry share a common responsibility in preparing talent for a rapidly changing world.
“Through this collaboration, we are combining academic excellence with industry insights to develop practical AI capabilities that can be immediately applied in the workplace.
“It is a meaningful step towards building a more agile, innovative and future-ready workforce.”
Beyond enhancing AI literacy, the initiative reflected HLA’s commitment to leveraging technology to create better outcomes for both its people and customers, the statement read.
By equipping employees and agents with practical AI capabilities, the company aimed to improve productivity, strengthen customer engagement and support more informed decision-making.
These capabilities further support its aspiration to deliver high standards of financial planning and professional advice to customers, while empowering its workforce and building the capabilities needed to deliver higher-value interactions and personalised service.
As technology continues to evolve, HLA is helping more Malaysians take that first step through this initiative, the statement said.
