The programme, YP Accelerate (YPXLR8), aims to create accessible and sustainable tech career pathways for 1,000 Bumiputeras, while addressing Malaysia’s growing demand for digital expertise.
“The programme comes at a critical time, with global reports identifying digital transformation as the most significant trend affecting employment.
“Technology-related skills, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), big data, networks, cybersecurity and technological literacy are expected to be among the fastest-growing in the coming years,” the foundation said in a statement.
Its CEO Ibrahim Sani was quoted as saying that YPXLR8 is expected to open doors for Bumiputeras from all backgrounds, regardless of prior experience, to get into tech roles.
“It is crucial that with the hundreds of thousands of jobs that will be displaced because of the AI revolution, the millions of talents today need to be re-equipped with the tools to be future-proofed, by being tech-ready,” he said.
He also said participants will receive industry-relevant training during a minimum eight-month placement with hosting companies or a permanent position, developing key skills through structured mentorship and hands-on experience.
Yayasan Peneraju is now seeking industry partners from all sectors to serve as hosting companies, offering roles in tech-related fields such as digital analytics, cybersecurity, business intelligence, and similar areas.
Each selected talent will receive financial support of RM1,500 monthly for eight months as part of the programme. On top of this, they will receive a further RM9,000 one-off training credits to ensure that they get the necessary tech-related training while on the job.
YPXLR8 participants will develop specialised skills across a range of high-demand technology roles, including software development, data & analytics, systems & infrastructure, cyber security, AI & machine learning, and user experience (UX) or user interface (UI) design.
They will also be trained on product management as well as business intelligence and software support.
Economy minister Rafizi Ramli stressed the importance of Malaysia’s next-generation workforce to be equipped with advanced skills in emerging technologies ensuring they meet the industry demands and remain competitive.
“YPXLR8 offers an ideal platform to pivot Bumiputera talents towards this opportunity. This initiative supports Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda by building a robust Bumiputera presence in strategic technology sectors, aligning with the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and 4IR Policy initiatives,” he said.
Industry players interested in becoming hosting companies for YPXLR8 can register at the Yayasan Peneraju website.