Page 70 www.rsisinternational.org/conferences/ICAME-2024 ICAME 2024 | International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) ISSN: 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS Special Issue | Volume VIII Issue XIX December 2024 AI-Driven Workload Optimization: Enhancing Employee Well-Being and Productivity to Promote Sustainable Economic Growth (SDG 8) in Malaysia Farhana Akter 1* , Md Rofi Uddin Shakil 1 , Azni Abdul Rashid 1 , Kanij Fatema 1 , Yeasmin Akter 1 , S M Asiful Islam Saky 2 , Noor Jannah Afi 1 , Kamal Ab Hamid 3 1 School of Business and Social Sciences, Albukhary International University, Alor Setar, Malaysia 2 School of Computing and Informatics, Albukhary International University, Alor Setar, Malaysia 3 International Islamic University Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah Kuala Ketil, Kedah, Malaysia *Corresponding Author DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2024.ICAME2406 Received: 06 December 2024; Accepted: 18 December 2024; Published: 25 December 2024 ABSTRACT This study investigates the use of AI-driven workload optimization as a strategic strategy for improving employee well-being and productivity in Malaysia, consequently promoting long-term economic growth consistent with SDG 8. As Malaysian firms prioritize creating employment and economic growth, and the study highlights the significance of artificial intelligence in transforming the dynamics of the workplace. In addition, AI technology may help organizations increase resource allocation, reduce operating costs, and improve employee job satisfaction. The study uses a qualitative research methodology, which includes semi- structured interviews with managers from six different firms that have implemented AI technologies. This approach provides an in-depth analysis of the impact of AI on employee experiences and organizational performance. Furthermore, the study shows the significance of focusing on strengths development approaches that promote a supportive work environment, eventually contributing to professional as well as personal goals. Furthermore, successful implementation of artificial intelligence requires active employee participation, which helps these technologies enrich rather than reduce the abilities of humans. The thematic analysis indicates an obvious connection between effective AI use and improved employee health, job happiness, and work-life balance, all of which contribute to greater productivity and workplace morale. However, the study acknowledges limitations due to its concentrated attention on a small number of businesses, emphasizing the need for more research across many different sectors. Finally, this study recommends a balanced approach that focuses on both technological innovation and employee well-being, which is essential to Malaysia's economic growth and sustainability in the face of rapid technological advancement and increasing employee requirements. Keywords: AI-driven workload optimization, Employee well-being and productivity, Sustainable Economic growth, SDG 8, and Work-life balance. INTRODUCTION The Sustainable Development Target 8 (SDG 8) focuses on decent work and economic growth, and Malaysian businesses are paying closer attention to this target. From 2016 to 2020, 53% of Malaysian public-listed corporations addressed SDG 8 (Hamad et al., 2023). A suggested framework attempts to improve youth employability management in Malaysia, in line with SDG 8 and national economic goals (Kyei, 2024). Furthermore, Malaysia is actively participating in the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable