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Pikom brings music into AI talent development

ID

8355

Status

summarized

Published

28 Jul 2026, 12:06 PM

Fetched

28 Jul 2026, 12:27 PM

Provider

Digital News Asia

Category

malaysia-tech

Original URL

https://www.digitalnewsasia.com/digital-economy/pikom-brings-music-ai-talent-development

Source URL

https://www.digitalnewsasia.com/rss.xml

Excerpt

Initiative highlights growing demand for human skills alongside AI adoption Inaugural festival explored how creativity and collaboration can complement AI in the workplace The National Tech Association of Malaysia (Pikom) partnered with Gig for Good, a Malaysian organisation that uses live music performance for leadership and talent development, and Musicians for Musicians, an organisation that supports the rights, welfare and professional development of musicians, to explore how music can help develop the human capabilities needed in an AI-driven economy. As AI-driven workplaces continue to evolve, businesses are placing greater emphasis on developing skills that complement technology, prompting organisations to rethink how future talent is prepared for new ways of working. The initiative was showcased at the inaugural Gig for Good Masterclass Music Festival 2026, organised by Gig for Good in collaboration with Pikom Academy and Musicians for Musicians, from 24 to 26 July. Held under the theme "The Augmented Individual: Artificial Intelligence x Human Performance", the festival brought together technology professionals, corporate leaders, musicians and young talent to explore how human capabilities can complement AI. More than 500 participants attended the three-day festival, which featured keynote sessions, panel discussions, masterclasses and live music performances focused on preparing talent for an AI-driven workplace. Alex Loh, deputy chairman, Pikom, said the rapid growth of AI requires a rethink of how people are prepared for the future, with technical knowledge needing to be matched by human capabilities. "While AI can enhance human potential, individuals must continue developing qualities that allow them to adapt, create and connect with others in an increasingly technology-driven workplace," he said. According to Pikom, music provides a practical platform for developing capabilities such as collaboration, communication, problem-solving and confidence, skills that are becoming increasingly valuable as AI reshapes workplaces. Beyond entertainment, live music performance requires individuals to respond quickly, work with others and communicate effectively, creating an environment where participants can build confidence while working towards a shared goal. Through live performances, participants were encouraged to work together, think creatively and respond to challenges in real time. Tan Hui Choon, founder and programme director, Gig for Good, said such experiences provide a different approach to learning by allowing participants to apply skills in real-world situations rather than through theoretical discussions alone. "The confidence gained from performing and collaborating can be carried into workplaces, classrooms and other professional settings," he said. The festival also featured the Garage Band Bootcamp, which trained more than 100 youths from 30 bands through live music performance aimed at building confidence, communication ski