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MADRID: The United Nations (UN) Climate Secretariat on Monday warned of the dangers posed by extreme heat to players, officials and fans during the upcoming World Cup finals, Xinhua reported. The tournament will take place in Mexico, the United States (US) and Canada with some matches expected to take place in temperatures around 30 degrees Celsius and high humidity, thus posing challenges for all parties involved. At the start of the 10-day June Climate Summit in the German city of Bonn, the UN Climate Secretariat said in a statement: “The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the biggest tournament in football history, will take place at a time when extreme heat levels are increasing, driven by worsening climate change and affecting billions of people around the world.” "This extreme hot weather is expected to be part of the tournament journey, on the field, in the stands, around the stadium and in the host city," the statement said. The agency said one in four matches throughout the tournament was expected to take place in dangerously hot weather conditions, adding that while players were likely to receive immediate medical attention, the same might not be the case for fans. "The greatest danger is likely to occur outside the stadium. Supporter zones, waiting lines, transport routes, car parks and outdoor receptions can leave people exposed to dangerously hot weather for hours," the agency warned. The warning came just days after FIFA overturned a decision banning fans from bringing empty plastic water bottles into stadiums to be refilled at hydration stations. -- BERNAMA-XINHUA

UN warns of dangers of extreme heat during 2026 World Cup

MADRID: The United Nations (UN) Climate Secretariat on Monday warned of the dangers posed by extreme heat to players, officials and fans during the upcoming World Cup finals, Xinhua reported. .... read more

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said on Monday that the US would declare "total victory" over Iran within the next two weeks, just hours after Iran and Israel agreed to halt the worst escalation of violence since a ceasefire took effect in April, Anadolu Agency reported. "We are a very determined team, and I think we are winning the battle, but you will really win it in the next two weeks when we declare absolute victory," Trump said during a campaign teleconference with Senator Lindsey Graham, his close Republican ally. "It will be an absolute victory. It will happen soon, and oil prices will drop sharply," he said. Earlier on Monday, Iran announced an end to its attacks on Israel, but warned of retaliation if Israeli military operations in Lebanon continued. The Iranian military said Israel and its allies "should have learned a lesson" from Tehran's response. Regional tensions rose on Sunday when Israel bombed the Lebanese capital, Beirut, despite a ceasefire still in effect. The action prompted Iran to launch retaliatory missiles into northern Israel, triggering several waves of Israeli air strikes on Iranian targets. Trump intervened early Monday by posting on his Truth Social platform, urging Israel and Iran to stop the fighting "immediately". -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

US will declare “absolute victory” over Iran in two weeks – Trump

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said on Monday that the US would declare “total victory” over Iran within the next two weeks, just hours after Iran and Israel agreed to .... read more

MANILA: At least five people were reported dead after a 7.8-magnitude offshore earthquake struck the southern Philippines, according to a local disaster official, Xinhua reported. Agripino Dacera, disaster management chief in General Santos City, said authorities were still confirming the extent of the death toll and damage. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the tectonic earthquake struck at 7:37 a.m. local time at a depth of 33 kilometers (km) with its epicenter 32 km southwest of the coast of Maasim town in Sarangani Province on Mindanao Island, near General Santos, with a population of about 700,000. The institute said the highest waves recorded reached 1.4 meters. Local media reported several buildings collapsed and caused power outages. Tremors were also felt in neighboring regions. Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos ordered disaster response and monitoring efforts throughout the affected areas and urged residents to move to higher ground for evacuation. The Philippines experiences frequent seismic activity due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a major tectonic plate boundary zone known for earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. -- BERNAMA-XINHUA

Mindanao earthquake: Five confirmed dead so far

MANILA: At least five people were reported dead after a 7.8-magnitude offshore earthquake struck the southern Philippines, according to a local disaster official, Xinhua reported. Agripino Dacera, disaster management chief .... read more

MANILA: Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday ordered all relevant agencies to mobilize relief and monitoring operations following a strong earthquake off the coast of Sarangani that triggered tsunami warnings in several coastal regions in Mindanao, the Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported. In a statement, Marcos said the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) are coordinating emergency response operations in affected areas. He also ordered the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to deploy aid supplies early and ensure that evacuation centers are ready to receive residents who may be affected by the disaster. In addition, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has been instructed to be on standby to assess damage and clear roads, bridges and important routes needed for rescue operations and aid delivery. Marcos also announced the suspension of school sessions at all levels in affected areas in Mindanao until further notice. "The safety of our children is paramount," he said, adding that the Department of Education (DepEd) would coordinate the implementation of the directive with local authorities. He also urged residents in areas that received tsunami warnings to immediately move to higher ground and obey the authorities' instructions. "To our people in the affected areas, please heed the tsunami warning. Immediately move to higher ground. Don't wait. Your lives are more valuable than anything left behind," he said. Marcos also assured that the central government is working closely with local governments and provincial offices to ensure that all the needs of the affected residents can be addressed immediately. An earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale occurred at 7.37 am Monday off the coast of Sarangani province. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the epicenter was located 32 kilometers west of the town of Maasim at a depth of 33 kilometers. -- BERNAMA-PNA

Mindanao earthquake: Marcos directs immediate response

MANILA: Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday ordered all relevant agencies to mobilize relief and monitoring operations following a strong earthquake off the coast of Sarangani that triggered .... read more

PUTRAJAYA, June 8 -- There are no reports of any Malaysian citizens affected by the earthquake off the coast of Mindanao, Philippines so far, according to the Foreign Ministry. The ministry in a statement on Monday said that as the incident is still in its early stages, the Malaysian Embassy in Manila is actively coordinating with relevant local authorities to ensure the safety and welfare of the Malaysian community in the affected areas. "Malaysian citizens residing in or travelling to affected areas in the Philippines are strongly advised to remain vigilant, immediately move to higher ground if near the coast and fully comply with all evacuation and safety instructions issued by Philippine authorities," the statement said. To facilitate communication and the swift delivery of consular assistance, Malaysian citizens are urged to register and constantly update their contact information via the e-Consular portal at the link https://ekonsular.kln.gov.my . For urgent or emergency consular assistance, Malaysian citizens may contact the Malaysian Embassy in Manila directly via the Malaysian Embassy in Manila channel. Telephone (General Enquiries): +63 2 8662 8200 Emergency Line (Outside Office Hours): +63 961 077 8113 Email: mwmanila@kln.gov.my The ministry, also known as Wisma Putra, through the Malaysian Embassy in Manila, is closely monitoring developments following the strong earthquake measuring 7.9 on the Richter scale that struck off the coast of Mindanao, Philippines, at 7.37 am, June 8. According to the statement, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia) has issued the latest information regarding a local tsunami advisory for the coastal areas of Sabah following the incident. Wisma Putra will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as confirmed information becomes available. -- BERNAMA

No Malaysians affected by earthquake in Mindanao – Wisma Putra

PUTRAJAYA, June 8 — There are no reports of any Malaysian citizens affected by the earthquake off the coast of Mindanao, Philippines so far, according to the Foreign Ministry. The .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 (Bernama) -- Malaysian diplomat Unny Sankar Ravi Sankar has been named a recipient of the Icons of Change International Awards 2026, becoming the first Malaysian to receive the global honour for advancing sustainable development initiatives. The award was presented in conjunction with the United Nations-designated International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development 2026. The Icons of Change™ movement is a premier global recognition platform honouring transformative Changemakers - individuals and organisations whose vision, leadership, and innovative interventions generate measurable impact across industries and communities worldwide. Currently serving as Minister of Economic Affairs at the Malaysian Embassy in Beijing, Unny Sankar is responsible for strengthening bilateral economic and trade relations between Malaysia and China. Before his current appointment in Beijing, he served as Director of the China Section and Europe II Section at the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), overseeing Malaysia's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)-related matters and economic relations with China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Macau, the European Union and selected Western European countries. In his acceptance speech, Unny Sankar described the award as a significant personal honour and a recognition of efforts to foster stronger international partnerships. "It is with profound humility and gratitude that I accept the Icons of Change International Awards 2026. This recognition deeply honours me as an individual committed to fostering meaningful connections between nations. “(Under my role), I lead efforts to strengthen bilateral economic and trade ties between Malaysia and the People’s Republic of China, two dynamic nations whose partnership is shaping a more connected and prosperous Asia," he said, noting that cooperation between the two countries has expanded through major regional and international economic frameworks. Through frameworks like the Belt and Road Initiative, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement, he said both countries are fostering trade, investment and technology transfer that go beyond growth. According to Unny Sankar, Malaysia and China are actively pursuing collaboration in green development, new energy vehicles, renewable energy and emerging technologies. He said these efforts include engagement with central and provincial government officials, visits to innovative companies, and the finalisation of memoranda on the digital economy, green development, and sustainable industries. "My work aligns directly with Malaysia's New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the 13th Malaysia Plan, driving innovation, creating jobs and building resilient supply chains," he said. He added that such initiatives contribute directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting inclusive economic growth, responsible consumption, climate action and reduced inequalities. "We are not only boosting GDP (Gross Domestic Product), we are investing in a low-carbon future that benefits both our peoples and the planet," he said. Describing the recognition as a motivation to continue advancing sustainable economic partnerships, Unny Sankar stressed the importance of translating diplomacy into tangible outcomes. "This award inspires me to do even more. True change happens when diplomacy turns into tangible, sustainable progress for generations to come," he said. He also called for greater global cooperation in balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability, saying, "Let us continue building a world where economic partnership and environmental stewardship go hand in hand." Unny Sankar holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biochemistry from the University of Malaya and a Master in Public Administration from Harvard University. In 2023, he was recognised by Britishpedia in its publication "Successful People in Malaysia", further cementing his standing as one of Malaysia's distinguished public servants on the international stage. His full acceptance speech can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mue830VpqNQ. -- BERNAMA

Unny Sankar Makes History As First Malaysian Recipient Of Icons Of Change International Award

KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 — Malaysian diplomat Unny Sankar Ravi Sankar has been named a recipient of the Icons of Change International Awards 2026, becoming the first Malaysian to receive .... read more

NEW DELHI: At least three workers were killed after a crane fell on them during bad weather in the northern Indian state of Haryana, a local official said on Friday, Xinhua reported. The incident reportedly occurred in the Faridabad area, where a bridge is being built to connect the area with the newly built Noida International Airport in Jewar, Uttar Pradesh. The incident occurred on Thursday evening during heavy rain. A muddy and slippery construction site caused a large crane to suddenly collapse, crushing a container housing several construction workers. One worker was successfully rescued, while three others died at the scene. -- BERNAMA-XINHUA

Three dead after crane crushes container

NEW DELHI: At least three workers were killed after a crane fell on them during bad weather in the northern Indian state of Haryana, a local official said on Friday, .... read more

ST PETERSBURG: Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States (US), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told RIA Novosti. Earlier, US President Donald Trump said he might invite Putin to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US. "Putin is not going away," Peskov said. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place in three countries, namely the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. -- BERNAMA-SPUTNIK/RIA NOVOSTI

Putin will not attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US – Kremlin

ST PETERSBURG: Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States (US), Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told RIA Novosti. Earlier, US President Donald .... read more

11 gold miners killed in landslide in eastern Madagascar

11 gold miners killed in landslide in eastern Madagascar

LUSAKA, ZAMBIA: Eleven gold miners were killed in a landslide at a mine in eastern Madagascar, Anadolu Agency (AA) reported, citing authorities on Wednesday. Initial investigations found that the victim .... read more

WASHINGTON, June 4 -- US President Donald Trump said Wednesday negotiations with Iran are proceeding "very well", Anadolu Ajansi reported. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump was asked whether a ceasefire involving Iran remains in effect following recent developments. "They did something, not a big deal. We got it. We nipped it in the bud very quickly, as we do with the greatest military in the world," Trump said. Earlier in the day, Kuwait said that Iranian strikes killed one person, injured 63 others, and damaged key facilities, including diplomatic missions, stressing that it “reserves the full right” to respond to the attacks. Despite the tensions, Trump expressed optimism over ongoing diplomatic efforts. "I hear the negotiation itself has gone very well, actually very well," he told reporters. The president said there could be progress in negotiations with Iran "over the weekend". Iran is "pretty close to signing a paper," he said. Meanwhile, Trump said the Strait of Hormuz will open "immediately" upon the signing of a possible deal with Iran. When asked if it is possible to get a deal with Iran or to open up the Strait of Hormuz without Israel stopping its attacks in Lebanon, Trump said the US is "trying" to separate the issue of opening the waterway and hostilities in Lebanon. "We actually spoke with (Lebanese group) Hezbollah for the first time ever. We didn't know they spoke, and they agreed yesterday that they're not going to shoot. Israel's not going to shoot ... but I'd like to separate it. I'd like to have a separate thing, because it is separate." On Iran's enriched uranium, Trump said he wants to "get it". "I want to get it ... We will go in at some time in the not-too-distant future," he added. -- BERNAMA-ANADOLU

Trump Says Negotiations With Iran Going ‘Very Well’

WASHINGTON, June 4 — US President Donald Trump said Wednesday negotiations with Iran are proceeding “very well”, Anadolu Ajansi reported. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump was asked .... 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