Kuala Lumpur: Students in institutions of higher learning must be quick to adapt to change so as not to be left behind by the fast-paced global development, in order to ensure holistic progress for themselves and the nation. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of quality as the world transitions towards digitalisation, the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI), and energy transition, all of which are being extensively discussed in this era.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar urged students not to view knowledge acquisition merely as a means to achieve financial glory, but rather to focus on contributing to the nation in line with the MADANI concept. He stated, “Acquisition of knowledge is to disseminate what is just and what is true, that is the challenge – in MADANI framework we talk about value, ethics, human dignity, our role to ensure we have a fair and just society and that is the role of the youth.”

The Prime Minister made these remarks at the ‘Temu Anwar Intitut Pengajian Tinggi Swasta (IPTS)’ dialogue at Management and Science University (MSU). Higher Education Deputy Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud and MSU president Prof Tan Sri Mohd Shukri Ab Yajid were also present at the event.

Anwar also advised youth not to lose sight of the fundamental value of knowledge as the world reaches a different level of modernity. He pointed out the current “deficit” in understanding global happenings, referring to the era as a “postnormal time” characterized by chaos and contradictions where truth and justice have become relative.

During the dialogue, Anwar highlighted the pressing need for expertise in AI, noting the country’s lack of skilled professionals in the field. He mentioned that the Ministry of Higher Education has been instructed to coordinate efforts to strengthen AI elements in both public and private universities.

The Prime Minister proposed mastering AI skills due to the significant demand and potential for growth in this area. He explained that public universities have been directed to establish AI faculties or incorporate AI elements into existing faculties to bridge the gap between graduates and the employment market.