KUALA LUMPUR: Artificial intelligence (AI) is breaking barriers and transcending gender boundaries, compelling everyone to learn and utilise it to improve life, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
"AI is no longer about men or women, who is physically stronger or otherwise.
"It is about how we explore it and use it to make life better.
"Regardless of whether we like it or not, AI is here and we must not overlook this reality," said the MCA president when opening the "AI & She: Empowering Women for a Smarter Tomorrow" forum on Saturday (Aug 23).
Dr Wee said that an increased female enrollment in electronics and electrical engineering (E&E) courses in universities was also a positive trend, bringing new technology into daily life and enhancing educational experiences.
Recalling a prediction made ten years ago by Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma that "by the time children currently in school enter university, 65% of existing jobs will no longer exist," Dr Wee said this underscored the urgent need to adapt and prepare for a future dominated by AI.
Highlighting the importance of embracing AI as a universal tool that can drive empowerment and innovation, he connected AI's potential with Malaysia's aspirations outlined in the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which focuses on attracting high-quality investments.
He said Malaysia is committed to cultivating more talent in human resources, including plans to transform Universiti Teknologi Malaysia into an AI University - an essential move given AI's pervasive presence.
Dr Wee also praised Wanita MCA for their initiative in promoting AI learning.
"Since Wanita MCA took the lead and started this initiative about AI learning, I hope you all can utilise this opportunity—learn and share knowledge, strengthen our understanding in this field," he said.
The forum, organised by Wanita MCA and the party's think tank partner Institute for Strategic Analysis and Policy Research (Insap), highlighted the role of AI in empowering women and fostering a culture of learning and collaboration.
Also present were MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, secretary-general Datuk Chong Sin Woon, Wanita MCA chairman Datuk Wong You Fong, deputy chairman Tee Hooi Ling, secretary-general and organising committee chairman Chan Quin Er and other leaders.
Wong, in her speech, encouraged Malaysian women not to be left behind in the global race for AI.
"We are in the midst of a digitally driven, algorithm-defined Fourth Industrial Revolution. AI is no longer science fiction – it is reshaping economies, societies and the way we live.
"Some see opportunity, others feel anxiety, particularly women in traditional fields such as administration, customer service and education, who fear being displaced," she said.
Wong said that Wanita MCA organised the event to provide women with a platform to learn and exchange ideas on AI, because technological progress should not be viewed as a threat but as a tool to unlock human potential.
"History shows us that women have always advanced by mastering new knowledge and embracing new tools – from the sewing machine to the Internet. AI is our era's new tool. It should not be our threat, but our partner," she said.
Wong said that AI can free women from repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on work requiring empathy, creativity and strategic thinking.
"The real concern is not whether AI will replace us, but whether we can keep pace and acquire the skills to use it," she added.
The forum, she said, brought together leading experts from China and Malaysia specialising in AI psychology, brand strategy, public policy, business intelligence and generative AI applications.
“They will share how AI can empower women in personal growth, family life, careers and entrepreneurship – turning AI from an abstract concept into a practical ‘superpower’,” she said.
Wong stressed that the initiative went beyond women’s empowerment.
“When women hold the keys to the future, they unlock not only family happiness but also community progress and national competitiveness. Mastering AI is no longer a choice – it is essential if Malaysia is to achieve its vision of shared prosperity and advanced nation status,” she added.
Among the key speakers were Chen Yanling from China, founder of AI-based psychological consulting service Scietrain; artificial intelligence practitioner and business intelligence consultant Chang Yun Yao; HRD-certified generative artificial intelligence trainer Vanne Yat; and Wen Wei from China, Eve Group co-president and an expert in artificial intelligence fashion and women’s brands.
Another speaker was Insap chairman Datuk Dr Pamela Yong, who delivered a talk on "Shaping a Human Centred Future: Women’s Wisdom and Hope in the Age of AI."
The forum also featured a panel discussion moderated by Wanita MCA secretary-general Chan Quin Er, followed by a networking session.
