This post was originally published on this site.
Kuala Lumpur: There is no need to fear that artificial intelligence (AI) will entirely replace jobs, an expert said.
Smarter HQ CEO Julie Holmes envisions AI as a tool that will redefine job roles and elevate the nature of work by freeing employees from mundane tasks.
The key question is not whether AI will take jobs, but rather, how we can leverage AI to become better versions of ourselves she told FMT on the sidelines of the National Human Capital Conference & Exhibition (NHCCE) 2024 yesterday.
NHCCE, organised by the Human Resource Development Corporation, provides a platform to discuss the evolving role of AI in the workplace and its implications for the workforce of the future.
Holmes compared AI with previous technological advancements such as computers and the internet, which transformed industries and job roles while also creating new opportunities.
We’ve seen this concept before – it is called general purpose technology. These technologies create massive transformations in economies, industries and job roles, she said, adding that AI was unique due to its unprecedented scale and speed.
While there would be temporary disruptions, including job losses and role changes, with any major shift, Holmes said these transitions signalled a shift towards new opportunities rather than the end of jobs.
“What we’re actually seeing is people moving into new roles and doing their jobs in different ways.
AI will take over some functions and tasks, but that will free people to focus on better, more challenging work that adds greater value to their organisations, she said.
Holmes urged companies to provide training and support to help employees adapt to AI’s integration.
“Companies need to guide their teams in understanding how to use AI ethically and productively.
This is how organisations can unlock the full potential of AI – by enabling their people to leverage the technology in ways that drive innovation and growth, she said.
On Sept 19, Sanjay Sarma, CEO of Asia School of Business, warned that AI’s impact on Malaysia’s job market could be staggering, citing the layoffs seen in the Philippines.
In her speech, Holmes said while AI could rapidly process data, it lacked human creativity and context, requiring human oversight to ensure decisions were valid and sound.
She said it was important for humans to question and assess the results provided by AI, rather than simply accepting what it suggested without examination.
* Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don’t want to miss.
* Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.