Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept of the future. It is already shaping how people learn, communicate, and live. While AI remains new in many aspects of student life in Malaysia, it is important to begin the conversation on how it may influence the way students experience accommodation in the years ahead.
What Do Students Think About AI?
A recent global study by Yugo collected responses from over 7,000 students across nine countries. The findings revealed mixed feelings. Nearly 48 percent of students felt positive about how AI could improve productivity and access to learning. However, 76 percent voiced concern that AI might impact future employment opportunities.
These insights highlight that students are aware of the rapid growth of AI, which means accommodation providers should also take note and prepare.
How AI Might Shape the Student Living Experience in Malaysia
The Purple House is not integrating AI systems at this stage. However, the future of student accommodation will likely see a shift through the use of smart technologies. Potential applications may include:
- Smarter services: AI could help operators understand student preferences and match them to rooms or services that suit their needs.
- Faster response times: Automated chat tools may assist in answering common questions or logging maintenance issues more efficiently.
- Preventive building care: AI systems could help detect early signs of problems such as plumbing or electrical issues before they escalate.
These are examples of how technology may improve convenience, comfort, and reliability for students in the future.
Technology is useful, but it cannot replace the importance of human interaction. In student accommodation, personal connection, community spirit, and care are still central to a positive living experience. Any use of AI must support, not replace, these values.
The Purple House remains committed to fostering inclusive and student-friendly spaces. Conversations around AI are necessary so that we can all prepare thoughtfully and respond wisely to upcoming changes.
References
- Yugo: Global students are excited by the power of AI
- PBSA News: Yugo study reveals students’ views about AI
- Uninist: How AI and ChatGPT are transforming student accommodation
- Business Today Malaysia: AI in Malaysian education – the good, the bad, the ugly
- ResearchGate: Investigating AI-based academic support acceptance and its impact on students’ performance in Malaysian and Pakistani higher education institutions
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