Kuala Lampur:Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Chang Lih Kang emphasized that young Malaysians should embrace science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields despite concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) replacing jobs. Instead, AI should be seen as a technology that creates new opportunities and enhances the value of skilled workers.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chang highlighted the importance of reaching Malaysia's long-standing goal of a 60:40 science-to-arts ratio, noting that although upper-secondary STEM enrolment increased to 50.83% in 2024 from 41.84% in 2019, there is still progress to be made. He expressed concern over the decline in the number of Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) candidates taking Additional Mathematics and the decrease in enrolment for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
Chang acknowledged that AI is transforming industries and could lead to some job losses, but he pointed to global trends indicating that AI will also create a significant number of new jobs. Citing the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report 2025, he noted that while 92 million jobs might be displaced globally by 2030, 170 million new jobs are expected, resulting in a net gain of 78 million jobs.
He also referenced a TalentCorp study in Malaysia that identified 697,000 jobs at risk of displacement within three to five years without upskilling. However, the same study found 120 emerging job roles, primarily in AI and digital technology, with many employers expecting AI to create new job opportunities requiring advanced digital skills.
Chang noted that Malaysia is attracting investments in STEM-related projects, which are creating local opportunities. In 2025, RM426.7 billion in investments were approved, involving 8,390 projects and expected to generate 244,902 new jobs. Despite this, there is a shortage of skilled local talent, with the country needing 50,000 skilled engineers to meet demand, while universities produce only 5,000 engineering graduates annually.
Looking ahead, under the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026-2030), Malaysia aims to create 700,000 new manufacturing jobs and 500,000 new digital economy jobs. Skilled workers are expected to make up more than 35% of the workforce by 2030. Chang stressed the importance of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) pathways, which can offer better pay than generic degrees due to specialized skills in demand.
He concluded by urging Malaysian youth not to fear STEM because of AI, but to embrace it, as strong foundations in STEM offer more choices and adaptability in a technology-driven world.