KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 – Building on the success of the ‘UTM-DPIM Drive Inclusive AI Adoption for Entrepreneurs‘ program held last June, the Faculty of Artificial Intelligence (FAI), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), in collaboration with Dewan Perdagangan Islam Malaysia (DPIM), recently continued the initiative to democratize artificial intelligence (AI) for entrepreneurs through the rollout of the ‘AI for Business Excellence’ (AIBEx) program at Wisma BSN. AIBEx is a training initiative introduced by FAI that connects AI with practical business applications. Open to strategic partners, it offers tiered, industry-focused modules, from awareness to advanced mastery, engaging both industry and entrepreneurial communities. This initiative reflects a shift toward demand-driven education, blending academic expertise with real-world business needs.
Strategic Collaboration and Industry Impact
This one-day program drew 120 participants from diverse entrepreneurial backgrounds, eager to deepen their understanding of AI’s practical applications in business. The majority of attendees were micro and small enterprise owners, with a smaller proportion representing medium-sized businesses. Most hailed from Selangor and Kuala Lumpur and were active in services and food & beverage sectors, industries where AI adoption can significantly enhance operational efficiency and customer engagement.
While the program content remained consistent with the June rollout, this session focused on broadening outreach and engaging more entrepreneurs at the early stages of their AI journey. Participants took part in interactive modules covering foundational AI concepts for non-technical, AI ethics, and practical tools that can be immediately applied to enhance business operations, particularly in areas such as marketing and productivity.
The event was made possible through the continued partnership between UTM FAI and DPIM, with additional support from Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN), whose venue contribution underscored the growing institutional backing for AI literacy among entrepreneurs. The program was officially closed by DPIM President, Dato’ Mohammad Sahar Mat Din, whose leadership continues to inspire the organization’s commitment to advancing AI adoption among entrepreneurs.
A video highlighting the one-day program, including the official closing remarks by DPIM President Dato’ Mohammad Sahar Mat Din, showcases key moments such as Ts. Dr Siti Armiza Aris (FAI) engaging participants on responsible AI, and Encik Kamarul Bahareen Kamarudin (DPIM) leading practical tool demonstrations.
Commenting on the goal of the initiative, Ts. Dr. Noorlizawati Abd Rahim, AIBEx program lead, said:
“At this awareness stage, our goal is to make AI approachable and relevant. The program is designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are, not to overwhelm, but to empower. We’re laying the foundation for future adoption, and the response has been very encouraging.”
Echoing this sentiment, Encik Adli Harith Mahyuddin, program co-lead of DPIM, emphasized the urgency of embracing technological change:
“Entrepreneurs must act fast. AI is no longer optional. Today’s turnout shows that our community is ready to embrace change and lead in the digital economy.”
The program’s success was further supported by DPIM’s strong commitment and generous hospitality, which included full-day food and beverage support. Leveraging its vast network of entrepreneurs, DPIM helped create a comfortable and engaging learning environment for all participants, reflecting its ongoing dedication to inclusive and scalable digital innovation. Building on strong feedback and rising demand, UTM FAI and DPIM are expanding the program series to more locations across the country. Upcoming sessions will also introduce advanced AIBEx modules and sector-focused applications, empowering entrepreneurs to lead and innovate in the age of AI.
