Johor bahru: The Johor state government continues to empower future talent through the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC) and international partners, including Alibaba-related companies, to implement the AI Design Training Programme. State Education and Information Committee chairman, Aznan Tamin, said the collaboration involved JTDC with Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB), Singapore Economy and Management Institute and Duiyo Pro, an Alibaba subsidiary that focuses on the field of AI design.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the collaboration also proves the confidence of investors and global industry players in the talent potential and direction of AI technology development in Johor. This effort was strengthened by the results of a Working Visit with the JTDC delegation to Alibaba Business School at Alibaba Headquarters, Hangzhou, as stated by Aznan in a statement posted on his Facebook page. He noted that the initiative opened up a space for direct exposure to the world's giant technology ecosystem as well as the real applications of AI in education and industry.
Aznan further mentioned that a special briefing was given by Alibaba Digital Commerce group general manager, Gu on Alibaba's business processes and how AI technology is utilised to improve efficiency, competitiveness, and sustainable talent development. The strategic cooperation focuses on establishing the "Alibaba Centre of Excellence" in Medini as a hub for AI learning, research, collaboration, and intensive AI talent development and digital innovation.
Additionally, the implementation of the Alibaba AI Design Expert Certification Programme aims to produce Johor AI experts capable of handling real-world projects, not just theoretical ones. The first group of registration is expected to begin in the Second Quarter (Q2) 2026 involving around 200 initial trainees, thus improving the skills and market value of Johor residents in line with the development of JTDC.
Aznan also expresses hope that the collaboration will have a significant impact on the regional AI industry and help realise the aspiration of making Johor a major AI technology hub in Malaysia.