Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet) has expanded Program Akar, its national talent development initiative, with a new phase focused on artificial intelligence and data science.

Designed to future-proof Malaysia’s financial services industry (FSI), the program continues to build a pipeline of digitally skilled, industry-ready talent through hands-on training, leadership development and real-world exposure, the firm said in a statement on last Friday.

The program gives university students practical skills in digital payments, AI and industry, preparing them for real world roles in the financial services sector.

The first cohort will comprise 100 participants, starting with 25 students from Multimedia University (MMU) and expanding to 75 students from other local universities later by the end of the year.

The program equips students with a three-pillar curriculum focused on: values-driven enrichment – cultivating leadership, integrity and a future-ready mindset; digital payment knowledge – Covering the evolution of money, banking systems, digital payments, and transaction security; AI and data science mastery – combining foundational knowledge with critical thinking and real-world applications.

The program connects students to hands-on learning, mentorship, and job placements within Malaysia’s leading financial institutions

Program Akar was first launched in collaboration with AWS in July 2024, focusing on digital payments and cloud technologies.

This second instalment, powered by Microsoft as part of its AI for Malaysia’s Future (AIForMYFuture) skilling initiative, expands the programme’s scope into AI and data science, reflecting PayNet’s commitment to staying ahead of industry shifts and continuously building digital talent that meets the evolving needs of Malaysia’s financial ecosystem.

The program is delivered by implementation partners PEOPLElogy Berhad and Futuresparx Sdn Bhd.

It integrates Microsoft’s cutting-edge AI learning pathways to ensure graduates are equipped with real-world, future-ready skills essential for success in an AI-driven workforce.

“At PayNet, we see talent development as national development. Program Akar is about more than preparing students for jobs. It’s about preparing them to lead Malaysia’s digital economy with purpose,

“By equipping our youth with future-proof digital skills and connecting them to meaningful industry opportunities, we’re strengthening Malaysia’s financial ecosystem and building long-term economic resilience,” said Farhan Ahmad, Chief Executive Officer of PayNet.

Laurence Si, Managing Director of Microsoft Malaysia, said that AI is transforming every role in every industry, including financial services.

“By collaborating with PayNet through Program Akar, we’re helping build a generation of talent equipped with the digital and AI skills to thrive, in line with Microsoft’s AIForMYFuture initiative,

“At Microsoft, we’re committed to empowering students with the capabilities needed to succeed in Malaysia’s growing AI economy,” he added.

Program Akar is part of PayNet’s broader commitment to shaping a future-ready Malaysia.

It a hands-on effort to develop young talent with the skills, mindset, and values to lead responsibly in a fast-changing world.

By working closely with Microsoft and other ecosystem partners, PayNet said it is building learning experiences that reflect real industry needs and helping to grow a new generation of digital leaders who can make a meaningful difference.

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