Pepper Labs joins regional AI training drive with AVPN, Google.org, ADB

Pepper Labs continues to upskill Malaysians in support of Malaysia’s ambition to become an AI-ready nation by 2030. Building on its ongoing efforts to strengthen AI literacy and competency across Malaysia, and having successfully reached over 350,000 learners so far, Pepper Labs has been selected as a local training provider under the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia-Pacific Phase 2.

The initiative is led by by AVPN with support from Google.org and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Through this programme, Pepper Labs will deliver AI upskilling designed to equip 50,000 Malaysians with practical artificial intelligence (AI) skills, with all training offered at no cost to participants.

AVPN is the largest network of social investors in Asia, comprising over 700 diverse members across 43 markets. The initiative forms part of AVPN’s broader commitment to strengthening the region’s digital workforce by expanding access to AI skills development initiatives. The effort aims to build inclusive AI readiness across multiple sectors, targeting higher education students from universities, polytechnics, and community colleges, alongside educators, vocational trainers, and micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) entrepreneurs. 

Selan Rajendran, Managing Director of Pepper Labs, said the recognition reflects the organisation’s commitment to expanding equitable access to emerging technologies. 

“We are honoured to be selected as a partner of the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia-Pacific. This recognition reinforces our commitment to expanding inclusive and high-impact AI opportunities, empowering Malaysians across diverse communities to thrive in an increasingly digital future,” he said.

AI training expands across key sectors

Pepper Labs will deliver structured training designed to equip participants with practical AI knowledge and hands-on digital skills for today’s evolving workforce, including exposure to Generative AI, Agentic AI, and Applied AI. The initiative ensures that AI capabilities are accessible beyond the technology sector, benefiting communities across education, entrepreneurship and public service. 

Educators, including school teachers, lecturers and vocational trainers, represent a key focus of the initiative. In partnership with the Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE), the initiative will equip educators and students with essential AI competencies, supporting the integration of these capabilities into teaching and learning environments and creating long-term impact for students and institutions.

At the same time, MSME entrepreneurs will also be introduced to practical AI tools that enhance productivity, strengthen competitiveness and improve digital readiness. Implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP), the initiative supports the growth of a more resilient and digitally empowered MSME ecosystem. 

Regionally, Pepper Labs is among 18 local training providers selected under the AI Opportunity Fund Phase 2 across the Asia-Pacific region, contributing to the broader mission of expanding AI access to underserved communities and supporting inclusive digital growth. 

The partnership further strengthens Pepper Labs’ position as a key player in AI talent development and solutioning in Malaysia, and a preferred partner for both corporate and public sector organisations.