Kuala lumpur: The government, through the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), is set to establish the KESUMA Semiconductor Academy (ASK) to train local talent in the fields of chip design and Artificial Intelligence (AI) manufacturing. Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan announced this initiative, aligning it with the 13th Malaysia Plan (MP13) to propel Malaysia as a leading AI nation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ramanan emphasized the importance of transitioning from being mere users of technology to creators, with a vision for the "Made by Malaysia" label to be showcased on integrated circuits and AI software globally. He shared this vision during the opening ceremony of the 2026 National Workers' Day Celebration, which was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at Unifi Arena.
Also present at the event were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and a lineup of ministers. Ramanan also introduced the Mobile Gig Clinic initiative, aimed at providing strategic support to digital economy workers in locations such as delivery hubs and city centres. This initiative will facilitate the registration of PERKESO (Social Security Organisation) contributions and offer direct welfare access.
The MADANI Workers' Card was announced to be extended to registered gig workers, allowing them to receive free health check-ups and mental counselling at the mobile clinic. Ramanan further revealed that KESUMA is reforming 26 labour laws, including the introduction of the Mobile Labour Court to enhance workers' access to justice.
Starting next month, PERKESO will implement the Skim Lindung 24 Jam, offering coverage to 9.6 million contributors beyond working hours. Additionally, the age limit for Skim Lindung Kasih for housewives will be increased from 55 to 60 years, benefiting over 720,000 women.
The annual Workers' Day event, celebrated every May 1, is a platform to acknowledge the workforce's contributions and strengthen the career ecosystem through job opportunities and skill development. The celebration, themed 'MADANI Workers, the Nation's Pride', attracted over 15,000 workers from both public and private sectors nationwide.
Key attractions included the Career Carnival by PERKESO, featuring 4,000 job vacancies through the MYFutureJobs platform, offering salaries between RM2,500 and RM16,000. The carnival also provided career guidance services and participation from over 50 exhibitors from various ministries, departments, and government agencies offering direct services to the public.
The event also featured the Rahmah Sale, Agro MADANI Sale, health check-ups, blood donation drives, a National Registration Department counter, and industrial technology exhibitions.