Kuala lumpur: Local companies of all sizes need to accelerate automation in operations and production as the future supply of foreign workers is unlikely to match current levels, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johari emphasized the importance of integrating automation into operations and production for companies, regardless of their size, during his remarks at the Women, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Digital Economy Forum. He highlighted that foreign workers are typically employed in jobs considered dirty, dangerous, and difficult (3D), and not as substitutes for local workers.

Johari underscored the need to consider the local workforce's circumstances, noting that they have family responsibilities and require fair employment opportunities. He encouraged employers to reevaluate their job offers to locals, suggesting that inadequate wages might be a barrier to employment. He explained that locals often seek overseas opportunities, such as in Singapore, due to better economic value.

The forum served as a platform to explore the evolving role of women in the AI era. It gathered insights from government officials, academia, industry, and entrepreneurship sectors to discuss ownership and value creation as AI continues to influence the future economy.