Extend AI access to retirees and senior citizens

ON June 29, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim launched the Malaysia Digital Action Plan 2030 (MD2030), which sets big goals for our country.

Malaysia wants to become an inclusive AI nation. We aim to move from being just users of technology to becoming producers of our own innovation.

Another target is to grow the digital economy so it makes up 30% of our GDP. To achieve this, the government announced that 100,000 young people will get free access to AI tools for three months.

This is a good step to prepare our youths for the future. But at the Malaysian Institute of Retirement Management (MIRM), we believe retirees and senior citizens should also be included.

Malaysia is an ageing nation. By 2030, more than 15% of our people will be over 60 years old. If we want to build an inclusive AI nation, senior citizens cannot be left behind.

Elderly Malaysians are not passive users. They have years of experience, wisdom and skills. With access to AI, they can continue to contribute.

They can mentor youths, volunteer or even start small online businesses. AI can help bridge their knowledge with modern platforms.

Imagine a retired teacher using AI to tutor students, or a craftsman using AI to sell his handmade products. These are real possibilities if senior citizens are given the same opportunities as the young.

We must also confront the issue of digital exclusion. While young people can quickly adopt new digital tools, older people often hesitate because of cost or lack of exposure.

Free access to AI tools would encourage them to try, learn and adapt, helping them to improve their quality of life and strengthen family and community ties.

Extending AI facilities to retirees is not just about fairness. It is also about building a truly inclusive digital society.

If MD2030 is to succeed, it must include all Malaysians regardless of age. Giving senior citizens the chance to explore AI will show that Malaysia values every generation in its digital journey.

We at MIRM urge the government to take this step. Senior citizens must be given every opportunity to participate in the digital transformation of the country. An inclusive AI nation must mean inclusion for all.

DR R. MUNISWARAN RAJOO

Honorary secretary

Malaysian Institute of Retirement Management

Kuala Lumpur