PayNet has launched a new phase of its national talent development initiative, Program Akar, with a focus on AI and data science.
The initiative aims to support the development of digitally skilled talent for Malaysia’s financial services industry through practical training, leadership development, and industry exposure.
This phase introduces a curriculum centred around three core areas.
The first is values-based development, which emphasises leadership, integrity, and a forward-thinking mindset. The second covers digital payments, offering students an understanding of the history of money, banking systems, digital transactions, and security.
The third focuses on AI and data science, combining theoretical foundations with critical thinking and practical application.
The programme will begin with 25 students from Multimedia University (MMU), expanding to include 75 students from other local universities by the end of the year.
Originally launched in July 2024 in collaboration with AWS with a focus on digital payments and cloud technologies, Program Akar’s second phase is delivered in partnership with Microsoft.
As part of the AI for Malaysia’s Future (AIForMYFuture) skilling initiative, the new phase incorporates Microsoft’s AI learning modules and aims to align graduate skills with the needs of an AI-driven workforce.
The programme is run by implementation partners PEOPLElogy Berhad and Futuresparx Sdn Bhd, and includes hands-on learning, mentorship, and job placements within Malaysia’s financial institutions.
Farhan Ahmad, Group Chief Executive Officer of PayNet, said:
“At PayNet, we see talent development as national development. Program Akar is about more than preparing students for jobs. It is 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 are strengthening Malaysia’s financial ecosystem and building long-term economic resilience.”
Laurence Si, Managing Director of Microsoft Malaysia, said:
“By collaborating with PayNet through Program Akar, we are helping build a generation of talent equipped with the digital and AI skills to thrive, in line with Microsoft’s AIForMYFuture initiative.”
Featured image credit: PayNet
