ASEAN Forum to Tackle Skills Gap in AI, Digitalisation & Green Jobs
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The ASEAN Green Jobs Forum (AGJF), hosted by Malaysia’s Ministry of Human Resources, will convene key stakeholders from across the region to address the critical need for future-proof skills and talent in the face of rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI), digitalisation, and the growing green economy. The two-day forum, taking place at Le Méridien, Putrajaya, will focus on aligning workforce development with the demands of these transformative forces. It will be officiated by Malaysia’s Human Resources Minister, Steven Sim.
Addressing the Triad of Change: AI,Digitalisation & Green Jobs
The AGJF recognizes the interconnectedness of three major shifts impacting the ASEAN labor market:
AI & Digitalisation: Automation and digital technologies are reshaping job roles and creating demand for new skills in areas like data science,software development,and digital marketing. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2023/01/how-artificial-intelligence-will-change-work/
Green Economy: The transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy is generating new “green jobs” in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, environmental management, and green technology. https://www.ilo.org/global/topics/green-jobs/lang–en/index.htm
Skills Gap: A important skills gap exists across ASEAN, hindering the region’s ability to fully capitalize on the opportunities presented by these changes. This forum aims to bridge that gap through collaborative strategies.
Key Participants & Regional Collaboration
The forum will bring together a diverse range of participants,including labour officials,policymakers,industry leaders,education providers,and social partners. Confirmed dignitaries include:
Terri-Ann O’Quinn: First Secretary of the Australian Mission to ASEAN. Australia has been a strong partner in supporting ASEAN’s economic development and skills initiatives. https://asean.org/australia/
jakkraphong Sumethchotimetha: Advisor to Thailand’s Labour Minister.Thailand is actively investing in upskilling and reskilling programs to prepare its workforce for the future of work. https://www.mol.go.th/en/
Carmela I Torres: Undersecretary of the Philippines’ Labour Department. The Philippines is focused on strengthening its technical-vocational education and training (TVET) system to meet industry demands. https://www.dole.gov.ph/
These representatives, alongside others from across ASEAN, will participate in plenary sessions and networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Forum Focus Areas
The AGJF will concentrate on several key themes:
Green Jobs in the Digital Economy: Exploring how digital technologies can accelerate the transition to a green economy and create new employment opportunities.
Upskilling Supply Chain Workers: Addressing the skills needs of workers throughout regional supply chains, ensuring they are equipped to adapt to digitalisation and sustainability requirements.
AI-Powered Training for a Green Economy: Leveraging AI and machine learning to deliver personalized and effective training programs for green jobs. This includes exploring micro-credentialing and other innovative learning approaches.
Malaysia’s Role as ASEAN Chair
The AGJF is a key component of a series of high-impact programs led by Malaysia during its 2024-2025 ASEAN chairmanship. This demonstrates Malaysia’s commitment to regional cooperation and workforce development. https://www.asean.org/asean-malaysia-2024/
Key Takeaways:
The AGJF is a crucial forum for addressing the skills gap in ASEAN related to AI, digitalisation, and the green economy.
The forum will facilitate collaboration between governments, industry, and education providers. Focus areas include green jobs, supply chain upskilling, and AI-powered training.
* The event underscores Malaysia’s leadership role during its ASEAN chairmanship.
The ASEAN Green Jobs Forum represents a significant step towards ensuring that the ASEAN workforce is prepared for the future of work.By fostering collaboration and investing in skills development,the region can unlock the full potential of AI,digitalisation,and the green economy,creating sustainable and inclusive growth for all.