Who can get free AI tools through Rakyat Digital?

Malaysian youths aged 18 to 30 who complete selected learning modules can receive three months of complimentary access to generative AI applications. The programme covers 100,000 youths in four cohorts of 25,000.

What else does the upgraded portal offer?

It offers free foundational modules through the Digital Literacy Hub and access to more than 16,000 Coursera courses through the Global Learning Pass. An AI Builders Hub is planned from October 2026.

Talent & education 12 August 2026

Digital Ministry upgrades Rakyat Digital, offers 100,000 youths free AI access

Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo launched an upgraded Rakyat Digital portal at the AI Malaysia Takeover 2026 event, with free generative AI access for 100,000 Malaysian youths. According to Digital News Asia, those aged 18 to 30 who complete selected modules get three months of access, starting from 31 August in four cohorts of 25,000.

Key points

The first cohort starts on 16 September 2026.
A government-funded Global Learning Pass opens more than 16,000 courses and certifications on Coursera.
An AI Builders Hub is due from October 2026 to help Malaysians build their own solutions.
Gobind said a board is being set up for AI Malaysia Berhad, launched by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on 28 July.

Why it matters for Malaysia

The upgrade shifts the platform from digital literacy towards practical AI skills, which is the gap behind the AI Nation 2030 goal. Its value will depend on how many people move from free access to actually building things.

Questions answered

Who can get free AI tools through Rakyat Digital?: Malaysian youths aged 18 to 30 who complete selected learning modules can receive three months of complimentary access to generative AI applications. The programme covers 100,000 youths in four cohorts of 25,000.
What else does the upgraded portal offer?: It offers free foundational modules through the Digital Literacy Hub and access to more than 16,000 Coursera courses through the Global Learning Pass. An AI Builders Hub is planned from October 2026.

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