Sold Foundation upskills 1,100 educators and 5,600 students in Malaysia’s first AI & cybersecurity TVET programme

• Programme focused on colleges with B40 students to reach those most in need
• Penang had its highest turnout of 150 participants, showing strong demand for digital skills

A new chapter in Malaysia’s digital transformation journey is unfolding as more than 1,100 TVET educators and 5,600 students have been upskilled through the nation’s first large-scale AI and cybersecurity training initiative, the Rakyat Digital – Digital Vocational Education and Training (DVET). The programme was implemented by Sols Foundation in collaboration with IBM SkillsBuild, and supported by the Ministry of Digital Malaysia and MyDigital Corporation.

Sols Foundation, in a statement, stated that the launch of the programme marked a milestone in Malaysia’s efforts to embed emerging digital technologies into vocational education nationwide. Spanning 230 institutions across Peninsular Malaysia, the programme 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 a high level of positive response: 95% found the training relevant and impactful, 96% felt motivated to continue learning, and 86% reported increased confidence in applying AI in their work.

“This isn’t just a training programme. It is a 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,” Daniela Strîmbei (pic), executive director of Sols Foundation said.

In Penang, the programme 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 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.

“Workshops like these spark new ways of thinking. I now have the skills and confidence to integrate AI into my work, something I never thought would be within reach. It is a game-changer not just for me, but for my students,” Mohair Nizam Bin Johari, a TVET lecturer from Melaka said.

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 network of strategic partners. Sols Foundation led the programme’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 mobilisation, 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 AI and cybersecurity, with Sols Foundation remaining committed to providing the necessary resources and training to those who need upskilling most.