Pepper Labs to train 50,000 Malaysians in AI under AVPN, Google.org and Asian Development Bank-backed initiative

• Selected under Google.org and ADB-backed initiative to scale AI access nationwide
• Programme targets students, educators and MSMEs with practical, hands-on AI training

Malaysian-based Pepper Labs Sdn Bhd has been selected as a local training provider under the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia-Pacific Phase 2, an initiative by AVPN supported by Google.org and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), to deliver AI upskilling to 50,000 Malaysians at no cost.

The programme builds on Pepper Labs’ ongoing efforts to strengthen AI literacy in Malaysia, where it claims to have already reached more than 350,000 learners. It forms part of a broader regional push to expand access to AI skills and strengthen digital workforce readiness across Asia-Pacific.

Training will focus on practical, hands-on capabilities, including Generative AI, Agentic AI and Applied AI, equipping participants with skills for today’s evolving workforce. The initiative is designed to extend AI capabilities beyond the technology sector, benefiting communities across education, entrepreneurship and the public service.

Selan Rajendran, managing director of Pepper Labs, said the selection reflects the organisation’s focus on expanding access to emerging technologies.

“We are honoured to be selected as a partner of the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia-Pacific. This reinforces our commitment to expanding inclusive AI opportunities and empowering Malaysians to thrive in an increasingly digital future,” he added.

Educators represent a key focus of the initiative. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education, the programme aims to equip teachers, lecturers and students with essential AI competencies, supporting integration into teaching and learning environments.

MSME entrepreneurs will also be introduced to practical AI tools to enhance productivity and competitiveness. Implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development, the initiative aims to strengthen digital readiness across the SME ecosystem.

Regionally, Pepper Labs is among 18 training providers selected under the programme, supporting broader efforts to expand AI access to underserved communities and drive inclusive digital growth.