PwC’s Global Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2026

PwC's Global Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey 2026 reveals a workforce that is motivated, adaptable and increasingly confident in its ability to navigate change. Drawing on the views of 1,201 workers in Malaysia, the findings point to employees who are embracing new technologies, building new skills, and looking ahead with ambition.

But this optimism is not shared equally across the workforce. While AI-enabled front-runners look ahead with confidence, many workers remain concerned about financial pressures, economic uncertainty, and their longer-term prospects. Rising workloads are adding to the strain, even as organisations continue to prioritise efficiency and risk management over innovation.

This report reveals a workforce that is willing to adapt, learn, and move forward. The findings point to a critical leadership challenge: helping workers navigate change while translating growing confidence in AI into productivity, innovation, and business value. Organisations that combine technology investment with workforce transformation will be better positioned to unlock new sources of value.