AI is no longer a futuristic concept; it is already embedded in business operations, from automating routine tasks to generating insights that drive strategic decision-making. According to a 2024 report by the World Economic Forum, AI and automation are expected to displace 85 million jobs globally by 2025 while creating 97 million new roles. In SEA, where industries such as manufacturing, financial services, and technology are growing at an unprecedented pace, the need for upskilling and reskilling is more urgent than ever.

With digital transformation initiatives accelerating across countries like Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam, organisations are seeking professionals proficient in AI, data analytics, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. However, the question remains: Are SEA workforces equipped with the right skills to meet this demand?

For many, the integration of AI is not just about acquiring new technical capabilities but also about developing soft skills that complement automation. Critical thinking, adaptability, and problem-solving will be just as crucial as coding or data science. This shift in skill requirements calls for a holistic approach to education and workforce training, balancing technical expertise with human-centric competencies.

Bridging the AI Skills Gap: The Current Landscape

Despite the rapid advancements in AI, a significant skills gap persists across SEA. The lack of AI literacy among mid-level professionals and senior executives presents a major challenge. A survey by LinkedIn found that 60% of companies in the region struggle to find employees with the necessary AI and machine learning expertise.

Governments and organisations are taking steps to address this gap. Singapore has been a frontrunner in AI skills development, with initiatives like the SkillsFuture programme providing funding for AI-related courses. Similarly, Malaysia’s MyDigital initiative and Indonesia’s National AI Strategy aim to bolster AI education and workforce readiness. Meanwhile, Vietnam and Thailand are seeing a surge in AI training bootcamps and corporate learning programmes designed to help professionals transition into AI-driven roles.

Yet, many businesses find themselves caught in a paradox: AI is transforming industries at a pace faster than workers can upskill. While younger professionals in tech-driven roles may quickly adapt, traditional sectors such as retail, logistics, and customer service face more resistance due to a lack of training infrastructure and awareness. The challenge is not just in equipping workers with AI skills but also in shifting mindsets to embrace lifelong learning and career fluidity.

The Role of CHROs in the Great Skills Reset

As AI reshapes the world of work, CHROs (Chief Human Resources Officers) in SEA have a critical role in ensuring workforce readiness. Investing in AI-focused training programmes, fostering a culture of continuous learning, and collaborating with educational institutions are essential strategies for future-proofing talent.

Leading companies in the region have already started implementing AI upskilling initiatives. For instance, DBS Bank in Singapore has rolled out AI learning paths for employees, while Grab has partnered with universities to develop AI competency frameworks for its workforce. These efforts highlight the importance of integrating AI training into long-term workforce planning.

Additionally, AI-driven HR analytics tools are helping CHROs identify skill gaps, personalise training recommendations, and predict future workforce needs. By leveraging AI themselves, HR leaders can create smarter, more effective talent development strategies that align with organisational growth.

A Call to Action: Future-Proofing SEA’s Workforce

The AI era is here, and SEA workforces must evolve to stay competitive. Governments, businesses, and educational institutions must work collaboratively to ensure that upskilling initiatives reach all levels of the workforce, from entry-level employees to C-suite leaders.

A successful skills reset requires a mindset shift—one that embraces AI not as a threat but as an enabler of innovation and productivity. The companies that invest in AI education today will lead the industries of tomorrow.

SEA’s workforce has always been known for its resilience and adaptability. The next decade will be defined by how well the region navigates this transformation. Will SEA rise to the challenge and establish itself as a leader in AI-powered workforces? The answer lies in how effectively governments, businesses, and individuals respond to the great skills reset.

TechHR SG 2025: Shaping the Future of AI-Ready Workforces

As organisations in SEA work towards AI-driven transformation, People Matters TechHR Singpaore 2025 emerges as a crucial platform for business and HR leaders to navigate this shift. The conference will bring together industry pioneers, CHROs, and technology experts to discuss the evolving skills landscape, AI adoption strategies, and the role of leadership in driving workforce transformation. With a dedicated focus on AI, digital skills, and the future of work, TechHR Singapore will provide actionable insights on how companies can build resilient, AI-empowered teams. By facilitating conversations on upskilling, learning technologies, and AI-driven HR solutions, the conference will help organisations stay ahead in the great skills reset.