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Education

PUTRAJAYA, 15 MAY -- The subjects of Malay Language and History in the Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) remain mandatory requirements for admission to public higher education institutions (IPTA), including for students who graduated from outside the national education system. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said it also applied to the decision of the Cabinet meeting yesterday, which agreed on several decisions regarding the entry routes for students from tahfiz schools or institutions, private schools and Chinese Private Secondary Schools (SMPC) to follow study programmes at IPTA. "SPM is still mandatory even if he (the student) is studying that stream. This is because our UPU (UPUOnline system) assessment is based on SPM results. "This means he sat for two examinations including passing History and Malay Language subjects which are recognised by the Malaysian Examinations Board," he told reporters after attending the 2025 Excellent Service Awards Ceremony of the Polytechnic and Community College Education Department here today. Earlier, Zambry, in his speech, stressed that the requirements for admission to IPTA must still be based on the SPM system even though the government has opened up certain pathways for students from other education systems. "The basics must be the same. For example, from any stream, entry into IPTA must be based on our SPM system," he said. Zambry said the government's decision was, however, manipulated by some quarters as if the government was sacrificing the country's education system. Yesterday, the government agreed to several regulations regarding the entry routes for students from tahfiz schools or institutions, private schools and SMPCs to IPTA. Candidates from this stream who also have a full SPM can apply for any study programme offered through the UPUOnline system. In another development, Zambry said the government is working to bring polytechnic institutions and community colleges to a new level in line with current changes and the country's development needs. "We can no longer see polytechnics as just support institutions or second feeder institutions . The world is changing and we know we will be left behind if we don't change," he said. -- BERNAMA

History, Malay Language remain compulsory subjects for IPTA – Zambry

PUTRAJAYA, 15 MAY — The subjects of Malay Language and History in the Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) remain mandatory requirements for admission to public higher education institutions (IPTA), including .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, 13 MAY -- Higher Education Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir has highlighted the importance of knowledge, ethics and leadership in navigating today’s increasingly complex global conflicts during a public lecture delivered by renowned academic Prof. His Excellency Governor R. Nasr at the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT). Zambry said Prof. Nasr, a Professor of West Asian Studies and International Affairs at Johns Hopkins University, is widely recognised as one of the world’s leading scholars in West Asian geopolitics, international relations and Islamic politics. He noted that Prof. Nasr is also known for several internationally acclaimed academic works, including The Shia Revival, The Dispensable Nation, Forces of Fortune and Democracy in Iran, which extensively discuss the political, economic and security dynamics shaping West Asia. Taking advantage of Prof. Nasr’s visit to Malaysia, Zambry said KPT invited the distinguished scholar to deliver a public lecture aimed at sharing deeper perspectives on the geopolitics of West Asia and the challenges facing the global community today. “The insights shared serve as a reminder that knowledge, ethics and leadership are essential in addressing the increasingly challenging global conflicts we face today,” he said. Zambry added that KPT remains committed to strengthening the culture of knowledge and creating more space for mature academic discourse involving world-renowned intellectual figures for the benefit of the nation and the global community. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ZAMBRY ABD KADIR

Dato’ Seri Diraja Dr. Zambry Abdul Kadir Hosts Renowned Scholar Prof. R. Nasr for West Asia Geopolitics Lecture at KPT

PUTRAJAYA, 13 MAY — Higher Education Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir has highlighted the importance of knowledge, ethics and leadership in navigating today’s increasingly complex global conflicts during a public lecture .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 13 -- The concept of “Guru Bitara” has been identified as a key pillar in ensuring the success of the National Education Plan (RPM) 2026-2035 in addressing global challenges and digital transformation over the next decade. Education Director-General Datuk Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad said the concept goes beyond a title, describing educators with outstanding qualities that encompass knowledge, skills, emotional balance, and spiritual strength in shaping a generation of well-rounded individuals. He said the RPM, launched early this year by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, outlines a clear strategy to nurture individuals who excel not only academically but also in soft skills. “That is why the educated individuals we aim to produce require teachers who are bitara. A Bitara teacher is unmatched in passion, knowledge, skills, emotional and psychological balance, as well as commitment to the responsibility and trust of educating the nation’s children,” he said. Mohd Azam said this during an appearance on the “Ruang Bicara” programme titled Guru Bitara Nadi Negara, aired on Bernama TV yesterday. Commenting on the 2026 National Teachers’ Day theme, “Guru Bitara Nadi Negara", he said the teaching profession faces increasingly complex challenges in the digital era, especially with the rise of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the influence of a borderless world that demands transformation in teaching methods. “Teachers must understand the challenges our children will face in the future. They are growing up in a borderless world, where external values are increasingly influencing their lives. That is why we want to transform teachers into educators who are aligned with the needs of the times,” he said. Regarding teachers’ welfare and workload, Mohd Azam assured that continuous efforts are being made to reduce non-professional administrative burdens so teachers can focus fully on classroom instruction. He also reminded school administrators not to become overly focused on “ranking” culture or excessive competition in activities that could affect teachers’ creativity and mental well-being. Touching on the national-level Teachers’ Day celebration in Perak on May 15, Mohd Azam announced a unique initiative in which 625 teachers are scheduled to deliver special Friday sermons at mosques across the state. This year’s celebration, to be officiated by the Prime Minister, will be carried out in line with the government’s austerity measures while continuing to uphold the dignity and importance of the teaching profession in nation-building efforts. -- BERNAMA

“Guru Bitara” – Key To Success Of National Education Plan 2026-2035 – Education DG

KUALA LUMPUR, May 13 — The concept of “Guru Bitara” has been identified as a key pillar in ensuring the success of the National Education Plan (RPM) 2026-2035 in addressing .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, 13 May — Malaysia is positioning itself as a leading force in the global digital and artificial intelligence ecosystem by fostering stronger international collaboration and accelerating innovation-driven initiatives, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo. Speaking at the FutureX Venture Fest, Gobind highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to building an open, connected, and borderless future through strategic partnerships with innovators, investors, and industry leaders from Silicon Valley, China, Europe, Australia, and across ASEAN. He said the strong international participation at the event reflects growing confidence in Malaysia’s role as an emerging technology and innovation hub in the region. “As we advance towards becoming an AI Nation by 2030, our focus remains clear — ensuring that artificial intelligence delivers meaningful impact for startups, SMEs, researchers, students, civil servants, and everyday Malaysians,” he said. Gobind added that the government is actively translating innovation policies into practical outcomes through initiatives such as the Government Innovation Initiative (GII), which aims to improve public services, accelerate technological adoption, and create wider economic opportunities for the rakyat. He stressed that innovation cannot thrive in isolation and called for greater collaboration across borders, industries, and communities to shape the future of technology and economic growth. “The future cannot be built alone. Collaboration will define the next chapter of innovation, and Malaysia is ready to work with global partners to create inclusive and sustainable progress,” he said. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB GOBIND SINGH DEO

Malaysia Strengthens Global Innovation Ties at FutureX Venture Fest, Says Gobind Singh Deo

KUALA LUMPUR, 13 May — Malaysia is positioning itself as a leading force in the global digital and artificial intelligence ecosystem by fostering stronger international collaboration and accelerating innovation-driven initiatives, .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 11 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on students to continue playing a vital role as agents of change capable of driving national progress through knowledge, strong values and maturity of thought yesterday. Speaking at the Prime Minister’s Friendly Ceremony with Indian students at the University of Malaya, Anwar said the younger generation represents a new source of strength that can unite Malaysians regardless of race, religion or background. He stressed that students must reject narrow racist politics that only creates division and threatens national harmony, while urging them to dismantle the walls of racial politics in order to build a more united, stable and progressive Malaysia. “The future of Malaysia depends on the courage and willingness of the younger generation to reject divisive politics and champion unity for the betterment of the country,” he said. Anwar also reaffirmed the MADANI Government’s commitment to defending the principles of social justice and ensuring the welfare of all Malaysians regardless of race or background. According to him, the Malaysia MADANI concept places strong emphasis on compassion, justice and inclusivity across racial and religious boundaries. During the event, the Prime Minister also announced an additional allocation of RM50 million for the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA), bringing the total allocation this year to RM150 million. The additional funding is aimed at empowering and assisting poor and marginalised Indian communities across the country. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Students Must Lead Unity, Reject Racist Politics – PM Anwar Ibrahim

KUALA LUMPUR, May 11 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on students to continue playing a vital role as agents of change capable of driving national progress through knowledge, .... read more

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Uzbekistan Student Emerges International Category Champion At 2026 PABM

KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 2026 – Abdullayeva Madinabonu Nizomiddin Qizi from Uzbekistan clinched the international category title at the 2026 Prime Minister’s Cup International Bahasa Melayu Public Speaking Competition (PABM) .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 -- A strategic collaboration involving MARDICORP Sdn Bhd, Koperasi Pemodalan Sahabat Terengganu Berhad (KOSAHABAT), Showme Kidz International Sdn Bhd (Showme School) and Ember AI Sdn Bhd is set to accelerate Malaysia’s aspiration of becoming an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven nation by 2030. The collaboration, formalised through the signing of two memoranda of understanding (MoUs), aims to strengthen AI adoption across the agriculture and education sectors while empowering students, agropreneurs and local communities through scalable digital learning initiatives. Ember AI, in a statement, said that under the first MoU, it will collaborate with MARDICORP and KOSAHABAT to advance generative AI learning and innovation within the agricultural and agri-food sectors through Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), agropreneur development and community empowerment programmes. The second MoU between Showme School and Ember AI focuses on integrating generative AI into inclusive education environments to support adaptive and personalised learning experiences for students. Ember AI chief executive officer (CEO) Billy Ng, in the same statement, said the collaboration demonstrates how AI can serve as a meaningful enabler for education and workforce development when supported by strong industry and community partnerships. “Our goal is to create learning ecosystems that are scalable, adaptive and capable of supporting students, young agropreneurs, and communities in a rapidly evolving digital landscape,” he said. According to Ng, Ember AI’s platform was built with scalability in mind, with infrastructure capable of supporting up to five million users nationwide while delivering personalised and data-driven learning experiences. Meanwhile, MARDICORP managing director Mohamad Zamir Ghazali emphasised that Malaysia’s agricultural transformation requires stronger collaboration between industry players, educational institutions, technology providers, cooperatives and grassroots communities. “To strengthen Malaysia’s food security agenda and attract more young people into agriculture, we need ecosystems that combine education, technology, industry knowledge and practical implementation. Agriculture cannot continue depending solely on ageing farmers or subsidies. “We need to cultivate interest among young people again and create pathways where technology and innovation make agriculture more competitive, sustainable and future-ready,” he said. He added that MARDICORP aims to bridge between agricultural expertise, research and AI-driven learning platforms to make knowledge more accessible and practical for agropreneurs and farming communities, as translating existing agricultural knowledge and technology into accessible tools remains among the biggest challenges. Meanwhile, KOSAHABAT president Prof Dr Fakhrul Anwar Zainol described the collaboration as an important step towards nurturing a new generation of technology-driven agropreneurs with not only education, but also guidance, platforms, mentorship and exposure to real industry ecosystems. The statement said that Showme School, recognised for its Finland-inspired holistic learning philosophy and inclusive education approach, will serve as a key implementation partner for AI-driven classroom innovation across its campuses in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Bharu, Johor Bahru and Kuala Terengganu. Showme School CEO and principal Redzuan Abdul Aziz said the school believes AI, when guided by the right values, has great potential to support inclusive education, and students should not only learn about technology, but also understand how to shape and use it responsibly and ethically for the future. Among the initiatives planned under the collaboration are generative AI learning programmes for TVET agriculture and K-12 education, industrial training, student field projects, agropreneur incubation and community empowerment initiatives, as well as workshops and awareness programmes. Pilot programmes are expected to begin in mid-2026, starting with KOSAHABAT’s agropreneur initiatives in Semenyih before expanding nationwide across Showme School campuses nationwide. “Collectively, the initiatives are projected to benefit between 1,500 and 2,400 students and agropreneurs through AI-driven learning and smart agriculture programmes,” the statement read.

Strategic Collaboration Advances Malaysia’s AI-driven Education, Agro Innovation Agenda

KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 — A strategic collaboration involving MARDICORP Sdn Bhd, Koperasi Pemodalan Sahabat Terengganu Berhad (KOSAHABAT), Showme Kidz International Sdn Bhd (Showme School) and Ember AI Sdn Bhd .... read more

Student Turns Parents’ Health Struggles Into Motivation For Success

IPOH, May 8 2026– Witnessing his parents struggle with health problems over the past few years has become the driving force for 18-year-old A. Divesh to excel academically and change .... read more

Aspiring Journalists Told To Strengthen AI, Data Journalism Skills

KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 2026– The rapidly changing media landscape in the digital era, increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence (AI), is pushing future media practitioners to adapt quickly to the .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, 5 MAY -- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has extended his support to young Malaysian musicians by contributing RM100,000 to the Alam Shah Wind Orchestra (ASWO) yesterday, as they prepare to compete in the prestigious World Music Contest 2026 in Kerkrade, Netherlands. During a recent visit to Sultan Alam Shah School following an event with NRES, Anwar took time to assess the school’s infrastructure and meet with members of the ASWO team. The orchestra, made up of 46 students from Forms 2 to 4, is set to represent Malaysia on the international stage on July 30. In his remarks, the Prime Minister emphasized that the students’ achievement reflects the nation’s broader strength—not only in economic growth and physical development, but also in nurturing confidence, emotional maturity, and a strong sense of identity among its youth. “As a sign of support, I am sending a donation of RM100,000 to assist with the team’s preparation and their journey to Europe,” he said, expressing hope that the contribution would further inspire the students to excel. Anwar also conveyed his best wishes to the orchestra, encouraging them to showcase world-class performances and bring pride to Malaysia through their artistry and spirit. The Alam Shah Wind Orchestra’s participation in the global competition marks a significant milestone, highlighting Malaysia’s growing presence in the international music scene. -- Minutes MY -- Credit: FB Anwar Ibrahim

PM Anwar Ibrahim Contributes RM100,000 to Support Alam Shah Wind Orchestra’s Journey to World Music Contest 2026

PUTRAJAYA, 5 MAY — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has extended his support to young Malaysian musicians by contributing RM100,000 to the Alam Shah Wind Orchestra (ASWO) yesterday, as they prepare .... read more

Latest News

SEPANG: The operation of Light Rail Transit 3 (LRT3) which connects Shah Alam, Selangor with surrounding areas is expected to begin at the end of this month, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook. He said the start date of operations would be announced in two weeks and the project was currently in the final phase of trial operations. "After various tests have been carried out and trial operations have been finalised, we are confident that operations (LRT3) can commence," he told reporters after chairing the 62nd Annual General Meeting of the Road Safety Council here today. Meanwhile, Loke said the Bill (RUU) establishing the Malaysian Transport Safety Board (MTSB) will not be tabled in the Parliament session which begins next week. "MTSB has received Cabinet approval, but we are now discussing with the Public Service Department to look at staffing and so on." "This bill will be brought to the next sitting because at this sitting, there is one bill, namely the amendment to the Road Transport Act, which we are giving priority," he said. Loke said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) has also identified individuals to be appointed to the MTSB, which will be finalized in the near future. In another development, Loke said the MOT would hold discussions with e-hailing operators on the possibility of implementing additional safety measures to protect the safety of their drivers. Among the suggestions raised is the installation of dashboard cameras ( dashcams ) in e-hailing vehicles, but this needs to take into account passenger privacy concerns. "In terms of safety measures, we will discuss further with the operator to see what other actions they can take to protect drivers." "In terms of safety, drivers and passengers are equally important. So we have to ensure a balance between the two," he said. -- BERNAMA

LRT3 expected to start operating by the end of June – Loke

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 15 -- About 7,000 to 8,000 Rohingya were sent to third countries each year through intergovernmental cooperation, said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail. However, he said the process has now stalled due to various constraints faced by the countries involved. He said the Rohingya ethnic issue was an international issue stemming from the political and security situation in Myanmar, causing Malaysia to accept their presence on humanitarian grounds. "Malaysia has government-to-government (G2G) cooperation with several countries that allows Rohingya refugees to be temporarily housed before being sent to third countries that need their labor or professional services. "Recently, the process of resettling Rohingyas to third countries has faced several constraints, causing their movement to the country to be halted, thus raising various issues that require the attention of all parties," he told reporters after the launch of the Fight Against Scam: Two Teams, One Goal, here, today. Mohd Khalid said that apart from that, Malaysia also took into account the humanitarian aspect in dealing with the issue, in addition to ensuring that national security continues to be maintained. "Everyone who comes to this country must follow the laws and regulations that have been set. These people are subject to our laws. If they commit an offence, we will take action just like we do against anyone else who comes to our country," he said. He said about 215,000 Rohingya are registered with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) while local authorities also have their records in collaboration with the Immigration Department to facilitate monitoring. "We know where they are and what their jobs are. So if any crime occurs involving them, it will be easy for us to take action when we know their location and so on," he said. Commenting on crime trends involving the community, Mohd Khalid said the involvement of the Rohingya ethnic group in crime was low, with 89 individuals recorded as being involved in criminal cases for the period 2024 to this year, which is 0.02 percent of the overall crime statistics in the country. In this regard, he reminded the public not to make statements that could affect public safety and order, while stressing that enforcement action would be taken against any individual who violates the law regardless of nationality. The media last Saturday reported that Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said that the rate of resettlement to third countries by the UNHCR was too low for refugees, including the Rohingya, which was one of the reasons why the group remained in the midst of local communities for a long time. Meanwhile, Selangor Police Chief Datuk Shazeli Kahar said the state recorded 192 cases involving 300 arrests of Rohingya between 2025 and May 2026 involving violent and property crimes. He said the police always take consistent and continuous enforcement action and are not based on current sentiment. "The police always work closely with strategic agency partners, for example the Immigration Department and Local Authorities (PBT), we work together to exchange information and carry out integrated operations," he said at a press conference by the Selangor Commercial Crime Investigation Department, here, today. Shazeli said last year six integrated operations were carried out throughout the state of Selangor to address the issue. Commenting on the issue of demolition of illegal settlements, he said discussions on the matter were being held with the local authorities involved so that further, more constructive action could be taken in line with legal provisions. – BERNAMA

Deportation of thousands of Rohingya to third countries every year has stopped – IGP

KUALA LUMPUR, June 15 — Communications Minister and Lembah Pantai Member of Parliament Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has welcomed the successful launch of the Dengue-Free Community (KomBeD) Programme and Mega Anti-Aedes Gotong-Royong initiative, describing it as an important step towards strengthening community involvement in dengue prevention and control efforts. The programme, organised by the Lembah Pantai Health Office in collaboration with the Lembah Pantai parliamentary constituency, was held on Sunday (June 14) and brought together government agencies, strategic partners and local residents in a united effort to combat the spread of dengue fever. The event also featured the National Healthy Malaysia Agenda (ANMS) Roadshow for Lembah Pantai, aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle practices and enhancing public awareness of health-related issues within the community. Fahmi said the initiative reflects the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining a clean, safe and healthy environment, while encouraging greater public participation in efforts to eliminate Aedes mosquito breeding grounds. "Community engagement remains a key component in the fight against dengue. Through programmes such as KomBeD and the Mega Anti-Aedes Gotong-Royong, residents are empowered to take proactive measures in protecting their neighbourhoods and families from dengue outbreaks," he said. He expressed hope that the programme would serve as a catalyst for building a more aware, proactive and committed community capable of sustaining a cleaner, healthier and dengue-free environment. Fahmi also extended his appreciation to all participating agencies, strategic partners and members of the local community for their cooperation and dedication in ensuring the success of the programme. "The commitment shown by all stakeholders demonstrates that effective public health initiatives require strong collaboration between the government, community leaders and residents. Together, we can create healthier communities and reduce the threat posed by dengue," he added. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB FAHMI FADZIL

Datuk Fahmi Commends Community Participation in Dengue-Free Community Launch and Mega Anti-Aedes Campaign

KUALA LUMPUR, June 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today described the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bukit Kiara Permanent Housing Project as a historic milestone that reflects the MADANI Government's commitment to justice, dignity and the welfare of the people. Speaking at the ceremony, Anwar said the project marks the end of a 44-year struggle for residents of Rumah Panjang Bukit Kiara, who have lived in temporary settlements under challenging conditions while awaiting a permanent housing solution. "This is a meaningful and joyous moment, not only for the residents of Rumah Panjang Bukit Kiara, but also proof that an administration guided by MADANI values will always place justice, courtesy and the dignity of the people at the forefront," he said. The Prime Minister noted that the project represents a concrete step towards resolving a long-standing issue that has affected generations of residents and demonstrates the government's determination to ensure citizens receive their rightful access to proper housing. He said the process of addressing the matter required careful consideration and collaboration among various stakeholders to identify the best possible solution while safeguarding the interests of the affected community. Anwar also expressed appreciation to all parties involved in making the project a reality, stressing that the experience underscored the importance of respecting legislative processes and upholding the role of national institutions. "The rights and welfare of those in need must continue to be protected, with justice enjoyed by all citizens regardless of race, religion or background," he said. He added that the government's efforts to uplift the urban poor would remain a priority, in line with its commitment to ensuring that no segment of society is left behind in the nation's development agenda. According to Anwar, development must be inclusive and benefit all levels of society, as true national progress can only be achieved when every citizen is able to participate in and benefit from economic and social advancement. During the ceremony, the Prime Minister also announced a RM1 million grant to assist longhouse residents transitioning into their new homes. The allocation will be used to provide residential maintenance subsidies for a period of three years and will be managed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL). He said the initiative forms part of the MADANI Government's ongoing commitment to preserving the welfare and quality of life of residents after they relocate to their new permanent housing units. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ANWAR IBRAHIM

Bukit Kiara Permanent Housing Project Ends 44-Year Wait for Longhouse Residents – PM Anwar

LONDON, 15 June  -- AI is rapidly reshaping the skills employers want most from workers – increasing the emphasis on human skills such as judgement, creativity and leadership – as companies most able to use AI continue to expand hiring faster than their peers, according to PwC's 2026 Global AI Jobs Barometer, released today.  The Barometer, which analysed more than one billion job ads across six continents, also finds that AI is driving a 'two-track' global labour market in which 'professionalised' roles – in which AI automates routine tasks so human judgement and expertise are emphasized – are growing faster than roles 'democratised' by AI – in which AI makes the role itself easier for non-experts to perform. 'Professionalised' roles (such as radiologists or recruiters) are seeing twice the growth in available jobs and 42% faster salary growth than those categorised as 'democratised' (such as IT service managers or medical secretaries). At the entry level, AI appears to be increasing demand for more 'senior' skills from junior workers. Based on 2.4 million entry-level jobs analysed in the US, entry-level roles most exposed to AI are now seven times more likely to require traditionally senior-level 'human-intensive' skills like leadership, creativity or face-to-face interactions. Job openings for these 'seniorised' entry-level roles have grown 35% since 2019, while other entry-level roles shrank 10%. Joe Atkinson, Global Chief AI Officer, PwC, said: "Across the global economy, we're beginning to see a new divide emerge between different models for talent and value creation. The companies seeing the greatest returns on AI are using it to amplify human expertise, accelerate innovation and create entirely new sources of value. As a result, they are pulling further ahead on productivity and growth than companies that focus primarily on automation." AI is driving a productivity boom – and "super-star" companies most able to use AI are pulling ahead significantly The report finds widening divergence between companies most and least exposed to AI. Companies operating in the most AI-exposed sectors recorded 34% productivity growth in 2025 relative to 2018, compared to 24% for the companies least able to use AI. Within this group, a pronounced "super-star" effect is emerging. The top 20% of the most AI-exposed companies achieved average labour productivity growth of 163% relative to 2018 – nearly five times higher than the most AI-exposed companies overall. Perhaps most surprisingly, headcount growth at the most AI-exposed companies is outpacing growth at the least AI-exposed companies – 52% relative to 36% in 2025, based on 2018 baseline levels. Average wage premium for AI skills hits 62% as AI job postings eclipse broader labour market growth As companies continue to boost productivity with AI, the average wage premium for workers with AI skills continued to surge higher – hitting 62%, up from 57% last year. The wage premium varies by industry: as high as 118% in some sectors, such as consumer markets, and 16% in government and public sector work. Jobs requiring specific AI skills – such as prompt engineering or machine learning – have also soared, growing roughly eight times (69%) as fast as the overall jobs market, at 9%. The number of AI jobs is almost twice as high as 2024, with growth in AI jobs outpacing all jobs since 2015.  Sectors including technology, media and telecommunications (11%) and professional services (6%) sectors saw the highest share in AI job growth – with health at the lowest end (less than 1%) Pete Brown, Global Workforce Leader, PwC, said: "The traditional relationship between experience and expertise is changing. AI is removing some of the routine work that once acted as an apprenticeship, while increasing demand for judgement, leadership and adaptability much earlier in careers. Organisations need to rethink how they develop talent if they want people to thrive in this new environment." Notes to Editors About PwC 2026 Global AI Jobs Barometer  PwC's 2026 AI Jobs Barometer analysed more than one billion jobs advertisements in 27 countries and territories. The Barometer combines large-scale labour market, company financial and occupational task data to understand how AI is reshaping jobs, skills, wages and productivity across the global economy. Additionally, this year's Barometer includes targeted analysis of entry-level roles, including how the skill requirements of early-career jobs are changing in highly AI-exposed occupations. You can read the full report and learn more about the methodology and key takeaways at www.pwc.com. About PwC  At PwC, we help clients build trust and reinvent so they can turn complexity into competitive advantage. We're a tech-forward, people-empowered network with more than 364,000 people in 136 countries and 137 territories. Across audit and assurance, tax and legal, deals and consulting, we help clients build, accelerate, and sustain momentum. Find out more at www.pwc.com. --  PRNewswire -- Source: PwC

AI reshapes global labour market into two distinct paths, rewarding human skills: PwC 2026 Global AI Jobs Barometer