Malays should venture into data science, says PM Najib

Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak wants Malay children to aspire to become data scientists, in addition to the usual list of ambitions.

He said such "skills of the future" would prepare Malays to be successful in the new millennium, which he said is also described as the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

"We used to ask our children and our students what is their ambition, and they would say they want to be doctors, engineers, or lawyers.

"But what is in demand now? In addition to these categories, there is big data, data scientists, data professionals.

"Surely that when we talk to our children today, we should inculcate in their hearts to, among others, become data scientists because this is the job of the future.

"This is the job that will make it possible for us to become a noble and successful race," he said in a speech in Kuala Lumpur today.

Najib was officiating the Gabungan Pelajar Melayu Semenanjung (GPMS) 62nd annual general meeting, in his capacity as GPMS patron.

He said if one is to enter a modern factory, they would not find any workers as the production is automated through the use of robots.

In addition, during his visit to China early this month, he said he found that the Chinese use a "3-1-0" system in its digital economy.

He said the system harnesses big data system to process loan applications in three minutes, transfer the funds in one minute, while involving zero human interaction throughout the process.

As such, focus need to be given to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to prepare Malay youths to face such a future, he said.- Mkini