2025-2026 EDITION
“ There are human skills that AI cannot replicate, such as leadership, integrity, communication, and teamwork – we need to build these skills in the workforce. Understanding complementary areas such as accounting and compliance matters too in helping projects succeed and building trust in organisations,” she observes.
As educators, it is important not just to equip students for the future of work, but to help them understand and make sense of the shifting landscape.
An interesting observation by TP Pun, a human capital consultant and chairperson of the School of Business Industry Advisory Board for the term of 2025, adds yet another facet of workforce preparedness.
“ There is a need to reinforce a belief in the purpose and principles of our core living, with the primary aim to make our world a better place for as many as possible,” he says, based on myriad interactions with senior leaders from corporate backgrounds and non-profits.
Pun opines that with the uncertainty of our times coupled with tidal waves of technological disruptions, the desire for greater productivity and instant gratification across all dimensions of society will only grow.
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Alongside digital skills, workers of the future must be able to lead, think critically, work with others and adapt in a fast-paced world.
ASEAN is a dynamic, robust environment with opportunities aplenty for innovation, progress and growth. However, in an era of ageing, automation and AI, it is imperative that consolidated efforts are made to enhance human capital.
Dr Keiko Ng Su-Ann
“ As movers and shapers of tomorrow’ s workforce, we need to build an ecosystem that properly monitors, manages and regulates work along a defined path.”
TP PUN
“ To effectively mitigate the negative impacts of population ageing and leverage opportunities from new technologies, it would be necessary for ASEAN to prioritise human capital development through education and training,” Dr Song
emphasises.
Academia, industry and government players must therefore collaborate, working together to prepare a futureready workforce that is adaptable, empathetic and solutiondriven.
Looking ahead, Professor Goh is optimistic.“ In a world where change is the only constant, every new challenge transforms into an opportunity for growth. ASEAN is earmarked for success,” he says.
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The human capital consultant emphasises several core skills in workers, ranging from self- and situational awareness to a wellness-based approach to problemsolving alongside the willingness to continually unlearn and relearn.