KUALA LUMPUR, 12 October 2026 (The Capital Post) – Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Haji Fadillah Yusof has urged young people to embrace values-driven leadership, integrity and responsibility as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape society and the global economy.
Speaking at the International Future Young Leaders Summit (iFUTURE) 2026 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL) on Monday (12 October), Fadillah emphasised that technological advancement must be guided by human values to ensure its benefits serve society.
He said young people should not wait until they hold formal positions or titles to demonstrate leadership, as meaningful contributions can begin through community initiatives and practical solutions to everyday challenges.
Fadillah outlined three essential principles of effective leadership: values, vision and responsibility. He stressed that integrity remains fundamental to earning public trust, regardless of an individual’s position.
Addressing the growing influence of AI, he cautioned that technological proficiency does not necessarily reflect wisdom.
He encouraged young people to strengthen their AI literacy by evaluating the accuracy of information, recognising potential biases in AI-generated content and considering fairness and transparency when applying emerging technologies.
Fadillah also called for Malaysia to move beyond being a consumer of technology and become a producer of technological solutions capable of addressing national challenges and contributing to global needs.
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He highlighted the importance of involving young people in policymaking and decision-making processes from an early stage, including through research initiatives, advisory panels and community programmes.
In developing future talent, he identified education and skills training, particularly Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), as important pathways for preparing a workforce capable of adapting to technological change and developing practical innovations.
The third edition of iFUTURE, held from 11 to 13 October, brought together 1,231 university students, comprising 813 Malaysians and 418 international students from 60 countries.
The summit serves as a platform for discussions on leadership, talent development and future challenges.
Also present were Higher Education Minister Dato’ Seri Diraja Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir, Higher Education Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Ts. Dr. Haji Aminuddin Hassim, Deputy Director-General of Higher Education (Governance and Development) Ts. Dr. Nor Aishah Spahat, and Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ts. Dr. Yatimah Alias, who moderated the dialogue session.
According to a post on the official Facebook page of Kementerian Pendidikan Tinggi, Fadillah’s address at iFUTURE 2026 highlighted the importance of ethical leadership, responsible AI adoption and youth participation in shaping Malaysia’s technological and societal future – The Capital Post
