More than 1,100 technical and vocational education and training (TVET) educators and 5,600 students have been upskilled through Malaysia’s first large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity training initiative the Rakyat Digital – Digital Vocational Education and Training (DVET).

SOLS Foundation said in a statement on Thursday that the program was implemented by the foundation in collaboration with IBM SkillsBuild, and supported by the Ministry of Digital Malaysia and MyDIGITAL Corporation.

It marked a milestone in Malaysia’s efforts to embed emerging digital technologies into vocational education nationwide.

Spanning 230 institutions across Peninsular Malaysia, the program placed special emphasis on colleges with high numbers of B40 students, ensuring access to opportunity where it is needed most.

Participants earned globally recognised IBM SkillsBuild credentials, with overwhelmingly positive feedback: 95 percent found the training relevant and impactful, 96 percent felt motivated to continue learning, and 86 percent gained confidence in applying AI in their work.

“This isn’t just a training programme. It is a powerful step toward ensuring no educator or student is left behind in the digital age,

“By reaching those who need it most and equipping them with real, future-ready skills, we are proving that Malaysia not only believes in inclusive innovation but is ready to lead in AI education across the region,” said Daniela Strîmbei, Executive Director of SOLS Foundation.

In Penang, the program saw its highest regional turnout of 150 participants, underscoring strong demand for digital skills.

The Penang State Government’s support in facilitating northern region training reflects growing state-level momentum for future-focused workforce development.

This was further reinforced by the presence of YB Jagdeep Singh Deo, Penang State Executive Councillor for Human Capital Development, Science, and Technology, who officiated the event and demonstrated the state’s commitment to advancing digital upskilling efforts.

It is noted that the Rakyat Digital – DVET initiative directly supports national frameworks such as Malaysia MADANI, the MyDIGITAL Blueprint, and the government’s agenda on Human Capital Development bridging digital skill gaps and fostering inclusive growth nationwide.

Its success is powered by a robust network of strategic partners. SOLS Foundation led the program’s design, training delivery, monitoring and evaluation.

IBM SkillsBuild provided the credentialing platform and core curriculum. The Ministry of Digital Malaysia ensured national alignment and visibility, while MyDIGITAL Corporation led systemic outreach and coordination.

The Ministry of Human Resources enabled lecturer mobilization, and the Penang State Government contributed to strong regional participation.

Through this collaboration, Malaysia is being positioned as a regional frontrunner in digital education and future-ready workforce development, especially in the transformative fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity with SOLS Foundation remaining continuously committed to providing the necessary resources and training to those who need upskilling most, said the statement.

SOLS Foundation is a humanitarian organization who serves, educates and empowers the bottom 40 percent of the population with FREE education, personal development, employment support and providing energy access to rural Orang Asli and Orang Asal (indigenous) communities.

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