Disruptive change is coming and we can’t avoid it. As a matter of fact we must embrace it, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Razak at the opening of the 13th World Islamic Economic Forum (WIEF), which begins today at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).

The Prime Minister noted that the most notable disruptive change is the onset of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“It is incumbent on use to ensure that as we change and as our economies grow, these transformations are conducted in an inclusive way.”

“As we speak of the fourth revolution, I am reminded of the fourth successor of our Prophet Muhammad, Imam Ali, who instructed the Muslims, “Rear your children for a time different from your own,” he added.

Therefore, Mohd Najib suggested that we heed this teaching by providing support and training for those whose jobs may be displaced by new technology, and by providing assistance for those who, through no fault of their won, may be in danger of being left behind. 

Mohd Najib is also scheduled to attend several events run in connection with WIEF 2017 such as the 12th Annual Consultation Bilateral Meeting between himself and Indonesian President Joko Widodo, and the exchange of several memoranda of understanding (MoUs).

Another highlight of the forum today is the ‘Face to Face’ session with Apple Inc co-founder Steve Wozniak, who will be sharing his insights on championing creativity, driving change, spearheading innovation and empowering the people during the curtain-raiser session themed ‘Disruption – A Way Forward.’

This year’s WIEF – themed ‘Disruptive Change: Impact and Challenges’ – examines how disruptive technologies can change the world as well as their benefits and challenges and at the same time, offers guidelines and knowledge-sharing to enable policymakers and leaders from business and other institutions to respond.

The forum also creates a platform for the global business community to come together and discuss burning issues such as how to adapt to disruptive changes, as well as to find solutions and develop initiatives that can better prepare the people for the technological revolution that would change their lives.

The last WIEF was held in Jakarta, Indonesia where it hosted five Head of States, 12 ministers, over 300 members of the press and more than 4,000 delegates from 73 countries.

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