Reshaping the Future of Work in a Digital Economy

September 6, 2022

INTI International University organised an INTI Leadership Series (ILS) titled “Reshaping the Future of Work in the Digital Economy” on 20 July. The virtual session, which featured IBM Malaysia managing director Catherine Lian, gave participants a glimpse of what the future looks like in today’s digital economy as well as the skills sought by employers.

As she shared her extensive leadership experience with the audience and walked through the current technology landscape, Catherine said the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and hybrid cloud is something every organisation has to consider to align with the Malaysian Digital Economy Blueprint and that organisations have a significant role in empowering future leaders.


Dr. Joseph Lee, Vice-Chancellor of INTI International University, delivering his welcome remarks during the INTI Leadership Series titled “The Future of Work in the Digital Economy”.

“The workforce of the future is about having the right mindset and skillsets. The global pandemic has shown us that IR 4.0 is not only about technology but people and society. I am proud IBM has built up a commitment of lifelong learning opportunities to ensure the future of technology lies with INTI graduates today,” added Catherine.

Meanwhile, Dr. Joseph Lee, Vice Chancellor of INTI International University, said the pandemic had sped up the adoption of digital technologies by several years and the digital proficiency of employees had risen in a short period of time which allowed the institution to remain globally competitive.


Catherine Lian, Managing Director and Technology Leader of IBM Malaysia, shares valuable insights on the importance of having a leadership mindset to remain competitive.

“The reality is the world will not be the same as it was before. Many business entities, including INTI, are taking a closer look at and rethinking the role of digital technology in the overall business strategy,” said Dr. Joseph in his opening remarks.

The virtual seminar also saw a roundtable session between the speaker and Top 10 students which discussed employability before and after the pandemic which was moderated by Tuan Harith Sihan Rainudeen, a student pursuing the Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) in Business Analytics programme at INTI International University.

Celerina B. Tinawin, a student pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy programme at one of INTI’s partner universities, the Polytechnic University of Philippines, said the ILS inspired her and gave her a better understanding of the future of the digital economy.


Participants of the INTI Leadership Series pose for a group photo at the event.

“This session organised by INTI allowed me to engage with an accomplished leader who has different visions, goals, and perspectives. I have learned about leadership competencies and effective communication skills, which are some of the strongest skillsets for a leader in the digital age,” Celerina added.

The INTI Leadership Series is one of INTI’s signature events that feature top leaders of highly successful companies speaking to INTI students on topics related to leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship and strategies relevant to today’s businesses.