ARTIFICIAL intelligence is making significant strides in this fast-growing era, and embracing its emergence will increasingly become essential for many, especially across industries and professions that require it.
In Penang, companies in the industrial zones have generously shared their expertise with educational institutions, from primary and secondary schools to colleges and universities.
However, limited resources and accessibility to AI tools in schools in Penang remain a concern.
The state Education Department is keen to ensure schools in Penang stay on par with the emergence of AI and its crucial role in reinventing education in this modern era.
A representative from the state Education Department, Saiful Nizam Ramlee, emphasised the importance of schools consistently adopting AI learning to equip students adequately and alleviate the teachers’ workload.
“Our concern is the accessibility and readiness of AI tools as we have limited resources to accommodate this new age of learning.
“Slowly but surely, there is progress, and we thank all our friends from the private sector, specifically industry giants, who have contributed their expertise and efforts to spearhead AI-related programmes at schools.
“We seek continued support from potential sponsors and the community at large to ensure AI learning becomes a part of the school timetable,” Saiful said during a media conference at the opening of the AI for Universities @ SEA workshop at Intel Microelectronics, Penang (PG16) in Bayan Lepas today.
The two-day workshop, which started today, will feature AI-based theoretical and conceptual talks, as well as practical modules for lecturers from various universities across Southeast Asia.
It is learned that some 170 participants from six countries (SEA) are here for the programme.
Intel Network and Edge Group (NEX) vice-president Eric WP Chan said the AI for Universities workshop was an extension of Intel’s initial AI-driven projects, which were aimed at schools, factories, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“This time, we reaching out beyond the universities in Malaysia.
“We have realised that AI is not merely about sharing it with others, but it is also about providing a platform for entities and individuals that will need it for future growth, a perfect example being lecturers at universities.
“Our goal through this workshop is to boost students’ participation in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) at university-level, which will play a role in developing their increased passion for this field,” Chan said.
Meanwhile, Intel APJ Health, Education and Consumer Industries Network and Edge Solutions Group senior director Dr SB Ngoo said the workshop will serve as a beneficial platform for the lecturers to get hands-on experience with the AI tools, familiarising themselves with the operations and functions.
“This is to enable them to bring back the knowledge to share with the students, creating an impression about AI and its benefits,” he said.
Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, who was present to officiate the opening ceremony, said that companies in Penang being AI-enabled is not surprising considering the state’s strategic industrial hub status, which often attracts foreign investors.
“Penang has always been at the forefront of technological advancements, and our commitment to AI is no exception.
“Our journey began with strategic initiatives and collaborations with industry leaders, educational institutions, and government agencies.
“Today, we witness the fruits of these efforts as Penang stands as a beacon of AI excellence in Malaysia and beyond.
“Our dedication to AI extends beyond education. Penang’s vibrant tech ecosystem, robust infrastructure, and forward-thinking policies have created an environment where AI can flourish.
“We are attracting top talent, fostering cutting-edge research, and nurturing start-ups that are pushing the boundaries of AI technology.
“These efforts are positioning Penang as a global leader in AI development and application.
“Today’s programme is not just a learning platform but a catalyst for creating a vibrant AI ecosystem in Southeast Asia.
“It will equip participants with cutting-edge AI technologies, foster collaboration, and inspire innovative thinking.
“These efforts align perfectly with our vision of making Penang a global hub for AI excellence,” Jagdeep said in his speech.
Also present during the opening ceremony were Penang STEM general manager Richard Chung, 88 Captains chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ooi Eng Hock, and Tech Dome Penang chief executive officer Khoo Boo Woi.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat