PETALING JAYA: As technology and workplace demands continue to evolve, Malaysians are turning to new skills and further education to stay relevant in an increasingly competitive job market.
Learning and development specialist Alvinder Singh Sobinder Singh, 31, from Selayang, has been taking artificial intelligence-related courses for the past three years.
“I try not to focus only on learning how to use the latest AI tool; instead, I understand the fundamentals, how to prompt and, recently, context engineering, which could remain relevant in the future,” he said.
Alvinder has also taken courses combining AI with human resources, his field of work, which includes areas such as learning, talent management and employee development.
“When I started learning AI, there was definitely fear it could make my job less relevant.
“But that fear quickly became motivation when I started asking: How can I use AI to become more valuable?” he said.
“More than simply protecting my own career, I want to help more Malaysians understand that AI is not just about using it to write something, but about how to solve problems differently.”
He said his workplace provides relevant platforms and courses to learn this, but time is more of a challenge.
“Some courses can be quite long, and I sometimes have to give up some personal or family time to do it,” he added.
Mohamad Amirul Asyraf, 33, an associate engineer, takes up AutoCAD drawing courses as a way to strengthen his skills for his current job while preparing for future opportunities.
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The software uses computers to create precise 2D and 3D designs, often used in engineering.
“I took this course because of my current position. I also want to have an extra skill set that can put me ahead of others in terms of skill for future employment,” he said.
“These skills have a great demand in Malaysia for engineering jobs.”
Mohamad Amirul paid RM79 for the online course and spent about an hour on each online class, but said finding time after work is a challenge.
“I have to manage my time for my family, and I can only do proper studying during the weekends.”
Meanwhile, Lee Jun Yen, 27, a senior executive in human resources from Cheras, is pursuing a Master’s in Human Resource Management to expand his knowledge and career prospects.
“I took this to upskill mainly by expanding my knowledge in HR, especially in areas where I may not have had the opportunity to gain hands-on experience at work.
“I believe having both practical experience and academic knowledge can give me a broader understanding of HR and help me become a more well-rounded HR professional.”
Lee said HR would continue to play an important role in Malaysia’s job market, even as the field evolves alongside technology, workforce expectations, and talent management.
“Continuously developing our knowledge and skills is important for HR professionals to stay relevant and adapt to these changes.”
He said he attends classes on weekends, roughly once every two weeks, and took a PTPTN loan to help cover the course fees.
“Besides thinking about how I’m going to repay the loan in the future, I see it as an investment in my knowledge and career,” Lee added.
