The Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Industrial Revolution 4.0 Era and Talent Development through Malaysian Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Programmes

Flexible workplace practices supported by collaborative institutional and industrial partnerships, together with the successful implementation of innovative training programmes, have enabled the bridging of skill gaps through Malaysian Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes. This initiative contributes to lowering Malaysia’s unemployment rate by training learners in competencies through real-world industrial settings. TVET fosters the development of globally accepted skilled human capital within formal, non-formal, and informal learning environments, adapting to the digital revolution that is transforming human lifestyles, work practices, and communication. As Malaysia advances from Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR 4.0) toward Industrial Revolution 5.0 (IR 5.0), skilled workers become critical in accelerating national economic growth. Hence, transforming TVET with national and international credentials is essential to produce a holistic, globally competitive workforce aligned with the National Educational Philosophy. Recognising talent development prepares learners with employability skills, while integration of computer technology enhances innovative teaching and learning. Artificial Intelligence (AI), central to digitalisation in various industries, reshapes global talent development and workforce competencies. Automation and robotics are gradually replacing the human workforce, highlighting the importance of integrating AI into TVET education. This promotes engagement with critical competencies needed for employment and daily routines. Based on this conceptual review paper, this study identifies the roles, strategies, and barriers of AI and talent development within Malaysia’s TVET programmes in the IR 4.0 context. It recommends further research to design a framework for integrating AI skills into talent development through TVET.