Kuala Lumpur:Klang Valley: PEOPLElogy Bhd has launched a national initiative targeting the AI readiness of five million Malaysians by 2030 as part of an effort to strengthen the country's digital talent pool.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative is designed to address a shortage of over 500,000 AI-skilled workers in Malaysia and support the expected RM50 billion economic potential of the AI sector by 2030. The National AI Readiness Week 2026 (NAIRW 2026) is central to this effort, aiming to bridge the gap between AI awareness and practical skills.

Founder and managing director Allen Lee highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that while AI's economic potential is rapidly growing, the workforce's actual capabilities need to catch up. The 'I'm AI Ready' movement seeks five million public AI readiness declarations by 2030 through verified assessments, scholarships, and business commitments.

NAIRW 2026, scheduled for November 12 to 18 at two venues in the Klang Valley, serves as the flagship event of the 'I'm AI Ready' national movement, launched in June. By the end of September, over 9,100 Malaysians had declared their AI readiness, with a target of 50,000 declarations set for the end of 2026. The event will include the I'm AI READY Summit, the Build a Future Team Leaders Conference, and the Asia AI Excellence Awards.

In support of AI upskilling, PEOPLElogy is offering RM3 million in AI Mastery Scholarships. The Asia AI Excellence Awards, presented by Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, will recognize organizations achieving significant AI impact. The movement is part of a collaboration with MyDIGITAL Corporation, with a second edition of NAIRW planned for the second quarter of 2027 as part of its ongoing commitment to reach its 2030 target.