First Malaysian company to collaborate with Indian Tech Innovation Hub for country’s burgeoning AI development needs
Kuala Lumpur, 09 May 2025 – In a significant move to enhance Malaysia’s digital upskilling agenda, GKK Consultants Sdn Bhd (GKK Malaysia) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation (IITMPTF). This collaboration marks the first time a Malaysian company has joined forces with an Indian tech innovation hub, aiming to address the country’s growing demand for advanced digital skills.
Bridging the Digital Skills Gap
The partnership is set to support Malaysia’s National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) and other digital initiatives by offering certified technology education programs. These programs will focus on emerging technological areas such as Artificial Intelligence, semiconductor design, green energy, and Industry 5.0 applications.
Dr. Gajendra Balasingham, Managing Director of GKK Malaysia, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “The digital economy contributed 23.5 percent to Malaysia’s GDP in 2023, amounting to RM427.7 billion. However, companies are still struggling to find suitable employees for roles in cloud computing, AI, and data analytics. This partnership will empower underserved communities and develop a future-ready workforce for Malaysia’s tech sector.”
Comprehensive Training Programs
The first program under this partnership will involve 550 final-year students at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). In collaboration with IITMPTF and GKK Malaysia’s ecosystem partners, both lecturers and students will receive comprehensive training in Data Analytics, Java Full Stack Programming, Cyber Security, and AWS Cloud Practitioner. This initiative aims to equip Malaysian talent with globally recognized, industry-relevant skills.
Mr. Balamurali Shankar, Chief Knowledge Officer of IITMPTF, remarked, “This partnership will bridge the skill gap by preparing more tech professionals in cutting-edge technologies, especially in Cybersecurity, AI, and Machine Learning. Students will gain invaluable hands-on experience and real-world insights, enhancing their employability both in Malaysia and internationally.”
Strategic Alignment with National Goals
The partnership aligns with Malaysia Digital’s focus on AI governance and NAIO’s strategic priorities, ensuring the workforce remains competitive in the Industry 5.0 era. His Excellency Mr. B.N. Reddy, India’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, expressed his congratulations: “The Indian High Commission is delighted to learn that GKK Malaysia has established a framework to promote advanced courses in Malaysia through IITMPTF. IITMPTF is a renowned innovation hub in India, and its advanced courses will enhance the competitive advantage of many Malaysian companies.”
Addressing Digital Industry Challenges
A recent survey conducted by Randstad Malaysia and published in its ‘2025 Job Market Outlook & Salary Guide’ indicates that 59 percent of Malaysian companies want to increase their headcount by an average of 10 to 15 percent this year. However, many are facing challenges in sourcing skilled professionals, particularly in AI, cybersecurity, and software development.
Dr. Gajendra concluded, “The demand for such professionals has surged, but the nation’s workforce is still lacking the necessary expertise to meet immediate industry standards. This partnership will play a crucial role in addressing these challenges and ensuring Malaysia’s workforce is equipped with the skills needed for the future.”
This partnership between GKK Malaysia and IITMPTF represents a significant step forward in Malaysia’s digital upskilling agenda, promising to equip the workforce with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. – NMH
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