Embrace AI or be left behind, says PM Anwar Ibrahim

There is no need to fear artificial intelligence (AI) as it will not dehumanise us if we embrace it with values, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. 

He added that in our civil society, while we talk about energy transition and digital transformation as well as AI, Malaysia will never abandon values and morals, and self-identity. Anwar was speaking at the University Putra Malaysia where he was officiating the 'AI for Rakyat' programme. In his speech, he addressed fears of synthetic humans taking over human beings and human values. 

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'AI for Rakyat' is a free self-learning portal to enable the masses to master basic AI skills in a four-hour module. It was built in partnership with tech giant Intel. 

Anwar added that such a programme is important to address the digital divide and so that Malaysia will not be left behind. 

He explained that like other new technologies, AI is a field that must be mastered now and that this quick change in technology must be accepted. To do so, Malaysia must embrace it as fast as it can.

If this application is not embraced and accepted now, we will be left behind, he added. 

The 'AI for Rakyat' programme, spearheaded by the economic ministry, is one of the government's efforts to make Malaysia a more global AI Hub.

Also present at the launch was minister Rafizi Ramli, who said "by taking advantage of this opportunity, we are able to build a future-proof digital economy and enable Malaysia to generate higher value on the world stage." 

The 'AI for Rakyat' programme will be available to the masses in four languages - English, Malay, Mandarin and Tamil. 

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