of “AI Plus” Strategy The announcement from China's State Council, which promotes artificial intelligence education at all educational levels, came amid reports that AI classes are being questioned. It is now compulsory For elementary and junior high schools in Hangzhou. These demonstrate that developing AI talent has a new urgency.
Asia is becoming a leader in upskilling workers in an AI-driven world. In a region with an aging population, there may be no more economically important responsibility than ensuring that all workforce demographics are maintained. AI literacy. Policymakers in Asia-Pacific understand that successfully preparing the workforce for the AI era will be a key determinant of future competitiveness and growth, and they are acting accordingly.
Our 2025 research shows that 88% of employees are using AI at work, a significant increase from just 22% in 2023. As AI becomes cheaper to develop and access, its use cases will increase and have the potential to transform many business models. AI could even reshape governments themselves. In his policy speech in September, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Kathu announced the creation of a new team to advance AI across sectors. Companies in the region need to follow the government's lead and accelerate investments in AI skills development.
The Hong Kong government announced this at the end of February. Budget for 2025-2026 And we have a new ambition to become an international exchange and cooperation hub for the AI industry. The city already has a special office dedicated to attracting strategic companies, including technology and innovation companies, to establish global or regional headquarters.
But AI will go far beyond the technology sector to transform global value chains, impacting not only product design and manufacturing but also many industries such as healthcare, finance, transportation, education, and retail. Hong Kong also announces trial operation Manufacturing and production line upgrades Support system.
Equally important is attracting, developing and retaining the best talent. Singapore focuses on lifelong learning through its SkillsFuture program. It provides grants to companies that invest in workforce development and grants to individuals who take training courses throughout their careers. It is strengthening training support for workers over 30 and providing incentives to employers who hire and retain people in their 50s and 60s.
A person views a website selling Singapore-made teddy bears equipped with artificial intelligence in Singapore on November 27. Photo: AFP
