The Johor state government has taken a significant step towards strengthening its digital economy by forging a strategic partnership to develop artificial intelligence (AI) design talent through a collaboration involving Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC) and global industry players.
The partnership, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), focuses on structured talent development programmes designed to equip Johor’s workforce with industry-ready AI design skills.
Johor Education and Information Committee chairman Aznan Tamin said the collaboration reflects strong confidence among international investors in Johor’s talent pool and its vision for AI-driven growth.
Under the agreement, JTDC — through Iskandar Investment Berhad — is working with the Singapore Economy and Management Institute and Duiyo Pro, a subsidiary of Alibaba Group specialising in AI design.
A key outcome of the partnership is the planned establishment of an Alibaba Centre of Excellence in Medini, which will serve as a hub for AI learning, applied research, industry collaboration and digital innovation.
The centre is expected to play a pivotal role in accelerating skills transfer and bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world industry applications.
In addition, the collaboration will introduce the Alibaba AI Design Expert Certification programme, aimed at producing AI professionals capable of handling complex, real-world projects rather than purely theoretical work.
According to Aznan, the first intake of the programme is expected in the second quarter of 2026, involving approximately 200 trainees.
“This initiative will significantly enhance the employability and market value of Johor’s young talent, in line with JTDC’s long-term workforce development strategy,” he said.
Aznan expressed optimism that the programme would have a substantial impact on the regional AI ecosystem and support Johor’s ambition to become Malaysia’s leading AI technology hub.
As part of the collaboration, a JTDC delegation recently conducted a working visit to the Alibaba Business School at Alibaba’s headquarters in Hangzhou, China.
The visit provided insights into Alibaba’s technology ecosystem, business processes and the practical application of AI in education and industry, offering valuable lessons for Johor’s own talent development initiatives.