KUALA LUMPUR: Primary school pupils will be taught the basics of artificial intelligence (AI) in schools starting 2027.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said in a few years' time, the school curriculum would include 'Fasih Digital' (digital savvy) as one of the seven competencies that must be mastered by school children.

In a parliamentary written reply on March 21, Fadhlina stated that the ministry is committed to producing a skilled workforce equipped with AI knowledge and skills, enabling Malaysia to remain competitive in the global economy of the digital era.

"Pupils that are digitally literate are capable of applying knowledge and skills in problem solving and create something new by using the concept of computational thinking.

"Among digital knowledge and skills that will be implemented in the new curriculum are those related to AI.

"Pupils will be introduced to AI basics in the primary school level in the new technology and digital subject. Further exploration and application of AI will continue in the same subject in secondary school, as well as in the computer science, information and communications technology, and design and technology subjects."

She said this in response to a question from Pang Hok Liong (Pakatan Harapan-Labis).

Pang had asked the Education Ministry to explain its plans to introduce subjects related to AI in primary schools to produce skilled workers.

Fadhlina said her ministry remained committed to continuous improvement of technology and digital learning systems to ensure that students could adapt and be ready to face future challenges and opportunities involving smart technology such as AI.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/03/1030434/ai-basics-be-integrated-primary-school-curriculum-2027