Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has officially launched CD:NXT — CelcomDigi Berhad’s flagship initiative to develop the country’s next generation of digital talent. This strategic programme marks a major milestone in Malaysia’s journey toward becoming a 5G-AI-powered digital economy, with a bold commitment to equip 5000 Malaysian youth with future-ready skills in AI, data, analytics, and emerging technologies.

Building AI-Native Professionals for a Digital Nation

CD:NXT is a long-term talent development initiative designed to cultivate AI-native professionals who will lead Malaysia’s digital transformation. Developed in collaboration with technology and university partners, the programme delivers an industry-aligned curriculum focused on critical digital competencies. It aims to enhance employability, foster innovation, and nurture changemakers committed to sustainability and inclusive growth.

CelcomDigi CEO Datuk Idham Nawawi emphasised the importance of investing in people, stating that the strength of a digital nation lies in the potential of its citizens. CD:NXT reflects the company’s commitment to shaping a generation of Malaysians who are equipped to lead in a world defined by 5G, AI, and next-gen innovation.

First Cohort of Young Talent Welcomed

At the launch event, CelcomDigi introduced the first cohort of 20 young talents selected from a competitive pool of 3600 applicants. These individuals were chosen through rigorous assessments and represent Malaysia’s brightest emerging professionals across key digital fields. They will begin their journey through the CD:NXT Young Talent Programme, a two-year track focused on eight future-critical skills, including AI, cybersecurity, cloud engineering, and sustainability.

Three Pillars of CD:NXT

CD:NXT will build Malaysia’s AI talent pipeline through three core programmes:

• The Young Talent Programme (YTP) offers hands-on training and mentorship for high-potential graduates.
• CelcomDigi UniConnects bridges academia and industry by aligning university curricula with real-world digital demands.
• The Student Ambassador Programme empowers students to lead initiatives in digital inclusion and sustainability.

Innovation in Action at CelcomDigi AiX

During the launch, the Prime Minister also toured the CelcomDigi AI Experience Centre (AiX), an immersive innovation hub developed with over 55 global and local partners. AiX showcases 61 ready-to-deploy use cases across eight key verticals, including manufacturing, logistics, and smart cities, with 25 active pilots already underway.

AiX supports Malaysian enterprises in adopting AI and digital solutions by offering proven technologies and expert guidance. These efforts highlight Malaysia’s growing capability to deliver scalable innovations and foster global partnerships.

A Future-Ready Malaysia Starts with Talent

With CD:NXT, CelcomDigi is investing in young Malaysians as the driving force behind the nation’s digital future. By empowering them with the skills, mindset, and opportunities to thrive in a 5G-AI world, the company is helping build a digitally advanced Malaysia that competes globally and grows inclusively. Stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com.