SERDANG: All members of the Cabinet have been given till next month to submit a report related to the progress in the increase of awareness and literacy of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at their respective ministries, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
This follows the target set out by the government to have one million people in the country who are AI literate by year end.
In his speech at the launching of AI Untuk Rakyat (Artificial Intelligence for the people) here today, the prime minister also imposed the same challenge on the secretaries-general as well as directors-general in all ministries.
He also extended the same challenge to all vice-chancellors of public higher learning institutions in the country.
"All KSUs (secretaries general), KPs (directors general) and vice-chancellors must submit a report, apart from other matters, on what has been done to increase the awareness and literacy on AI among their staff at their respective ministers as well as students at their respective universities.
"Today we are emphasising on literacy following the launch of AI Untuk Rakyat programme. Therefore, one month from now, I want everyone to submit a report on the progress.
"I would like to also extend the 'challenge' to members of the Cabinet," he said.
Present was Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli.
AI Untuk Rakyat is a self learning online programme created to increase understanding and awareness among the public on AI.
The programme, which can be accessed by the public via portal www.ai.gov.my, has two modules namely AI Aware and AI Appreciate.
The programme can be completed by the public within four hours or according to one's speed.
"However, let me emphasise something here. While we are accelerating the adoption of AI, digital transformation as well as energy transition, this Madani government will not neglect matters related to good values and identity.
"That is why, on numerous occasions, I always stress on the need to 'reach for the sky' but remain rooted to the ground (remain humble).
"We must continue to uphold our culture, our religion and good values," he said.
Anwar later told reporters that while the government was all for the adoption of AI and advancement of technology, the federal administration would continue with its efforts to put a stop to poverty in the country.
"Last year, we managed to put a stop to poverty in the Federal Territories as well as Negri Sembilan and some other parts of the country.
"The efforts however will not stop there. We will continue with our efforts to eradicate poverty this year as some states have veered slightly from the targets," he said.