How many AI graduates does Malaysia aim to produce?

The Ministry of Higher Education aims to produce 30,000 AI-skilled graduates between 2025 and 2030, helped by 30 specialised programmes at bachelor's, master's and PhD levels across 11 public universities.

How will AI be added to university courses in Malaysia?

Zambry Abdul Kadir said the ministry plans to integrate AI elements into 80% of bachelor's degree courses at public universities. The Malaysian Qualifications Agency has also developed programme standards to guide AI programmes.

Talent & education 8 October 2026

Higher Education Ministry targets 30,000 AI-skilled graduates by 2030

Higher Education Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir told the Dewan Rakyat that his ministry aims to produce 30,000 AI-skilled graduates between 2025 and 2030. According to Malay Mail, citing Bernama, 30 specialised AI programmes at 11 public universities will help reach the target.

Key points

The ministry plans to integrate AI elements into 80% of bachelor's degree courses at public universities.
As of 30 September, 455 programmes at various levels had been reviewed to keep them relevant to technological change.
New AI-focused faculties are being set up at UTM, UTeM and UniMAP.
Zambry said the main challenge is using AI as a learning aid rather than letting it take over human thinking.

Why it matters for Malaysia

The target ties university planning to the automation concerns raised in Parliament, though the harder test will be whether graduates can think critically and not simply lean on the tools.

Questions answered

How many AI graduates does Malaysia aim to produce?: The Ministry of Higher Education aims to produce 30,000 AI-skilled graduates between 2025 and 2030, helped by 30 specialised programmes at bachelor's, master's and PhD levels across 11 public universities.
How will AI be added to university courses in Malaysia?: Zambry Abdul Kadir said the ministry plans to integrate AI elements into 80% of bachelor's degree courses at public universities. The Malaysian Qualifications Agency has also developed programme standards to guide AI programmes.

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