APAC Gen Z most anxious with AI in the workplace; Prioritise upskilling
About 53.5 per cent of the workers surveyed in APAC are worried that AI might replace their jobs, with Gen Z feeling the most anxious about job security, according to a survey by Reeracoen.
The report, Perception of AI in the Workplace, gathered insights from over 400 workers across various industries in APAC. It highlighted AI-related anxiety across different generations, the talent gap, and the need for better upskilling support from both governments and employers. Some key findings from the report include:
#1 AI Anxiety across generations
The survey reveals that while more than half of workers are worried about AI taking over jobs, Gen Z is more concerned about its impact on job security in the mid-term, compared to older generations who are less focused on immediate threats. About 32.8 per cent of Baby Boomers are the least worried about AI replacing their jobs, while 31.8 per cent of Gen X workers are mostly concerned about challenges beyond the next five years. Meanwhile, 27 per cent of Gen Y workers are focused on AI's impact over the next 3-5 years, with Gen Z showing the highest level of concern at 36.5 per cent for that same period. Additionally, 21 per cent of Gen Z workers are worried AI could replace their jobs within 1-2 years.
Despite these differences, both younger and older workers are committed to upskilling—Gen Z is prioritising technical skills, while older generations are utilising local resources to support their learning. This highlights the need for strong workforce strategies to address these concerns.
#2 Proactive upskilling efforts
A notable 62.4 per cent of participants are actively preparing for an AI-driven future, mainly by taking courses in data analysis and AI. This trend aligns well with government initiatives aimed at building an AI-ready workforce. Additionally, around 32.9 per cent of workers plan to upskill through courses and certifications, with 31.6 per cent of Gen Y and 28.7 per cent of Gen Z making up a large part of this group. Another 29.5 per cent intend to stay updated on AI developments in their fields, while 19.4 per cent are considering shifting to different job roles—37.5 per cent of those are Gen Z.
Interestingly, a few Baby Boomers mentioned they might consider retiring or leaving their roles if AI becomes a significant threat to their job security.
#3 Employer Support Gap
There are mixed feelings about corporate support for AI integration. Only 23.1 per cent of respondents felt their companies were truly supportive in preparing for AI changes, highlighting the need for stronger corporate strategies to help employees get ready. While 34.2 per cent feel somewhat supported and 25.9 per cent remain neutral, 16.9 per cent have negative views—10.6 per cent feel they aren’t very supported, and 6.3 per cent say they receive no support at all.
Interestingly, only 8.6 per cent of respondents believe their companies are adequately preparing for AI-driven changes, with 30.1 per cent acknowledging some efforts. Meanwhile, 33.1 per cent remain neutral, and 28.3 per cent feel companies aren’t doing enough—this includes 22 per cent who see minimal support and 6.3 per cent who feel there is none at all. These findings point to significant concerns about readiness and support, underlining the need for companies to take proactive steps in effectively integrating AI into the workplace.
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#4 AI tools usage
About 24.8 per cent of respondents are using AI tools for 20 per cent of their tasks, with 28.3 per cent Gen Z making up the majority. 14.8 per cent of them are using AI tools for upto 30 per cent of their tasks, and Gen Z representing 40.7 per cent of the share. Only 4 per cent of respondents are using AI tools for 40 per cent of their tasks, and Gen Y leads this category at 43.8 per cent.
Among the AI tools, ChatGPT is the most widely used AI tool across all age groups, with younger users also turning to tools like Grammarly and Canva for specific tasks. Despite ChatGPT’s popularity, many respondents use AI for less than 10 per cent of their daily tasks. This shows a generational divide in AI use, with Gen Z embracing it more than older generations.
#5 Jobs that are safe (and not safe) from AI
Around 25.9 per cent of participants feel that healthcare professionals, like doctors and nurses, are safe from AI replacement. Additionally, 20.4 per cent believe managerial roles are less likely to be replaced, while 16.7 per cent pointed to skilled trades, such as electricians and plumbers, as the least replaceable—an opinion shared by 35 per cent of Gen Y workers. Only 10.7 per cent of respondents think human-centred roles like counsellors and social workers are safe from AI, with over 32 per cent of Gen Z holding these positions.
The most threatened jobs roles included: Customer Service & Interaction-Based Tasks, Manual & Labour-Intensive Tasks, Technical & IT Tasks, and Creative Tasks.
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Sharing his thoughts on bridging the AI readiness gap, Mr Kenji Naito, Group CEO of Reeracoen Group, said, “As AI reshapes the workforce, our role is to guide companies and job seekers to navigate these changes successfully. This report provides invaluable insights, enabling us to align our strategies with Singapore’s Smart Nation 2.0 vision and connect businesses with AI-ready talent. Our findings show that while AI adoption is accelerating, companies must take proactive steps to support their employees’ upskilling. By connecting businesses with high-calibre candidates, we will continue contributing to Singapore’s vision of becoming a global AI hub.”