Collective effort required to realise MY's aim to be among top 20 AI nations

Prime minister Anwar Ibrahim has reportedly called on researchers, developers and decision-makers to support and play a role in achieving Malaysia's aspirations to be among the top 20 countries in terms of AI technology. 

The minister reportedly wants these parties to work together to develop and adopt AI-related technology responsibly and ethically, adding that the government has agreed to help build the national AI ecosystem. 

This includes having a centre of excellence to facilitate AI learning and research, as well as creating Malaysia's very own AI cloud computing system. 

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At the same time, the minister stressed that human values, data protection and the responsible use of technology have all been affected and have been given a new meaning by AI technology, according to Bernama.

The minister reportedly added that despite helping to improve the quality of life, efficiency and creativity of humans, the modern and dynamic generative AI technology also has a dark side that society needs to be aware of. 

This dark side includes deep fake technology where it is capable of eroding trust in digital reality, can change the public's perception of reality and threaten the integrity of information, causing confusion, Anwar reportedly said. 

To which, prime minister Anwar reportedly said that the government's general approach is to minimise risk by identifying the risks associated with the impact of AI on society and people's lives. 

He reportedly added that policies and laws to avoid the issue of leakage in AI governance are also required. 

According to Bernama, Anwar made these comments during the opening speech at the International Conference on Innovation and Entrepreneurship in computing, engineering and education science at Universiti Teknologi Mara Shah Alam on 19 August. 

In the same speech, Anwar also reportedly touched on the regulatory aspects where Malaysia is now actively involved in forming digital economy cooperation at the ASEAN level. This includes the Digital Economy Framework Agreement and the Cyber Security Bill 2024.

The minister reportedly said that the Personal Data Protection Department is also in the final stage of formulating the bill to amend the Personal Data Protection Act 2010. 

Earlier this year, Anwar said that there is no need to fear AI as it will not dehumanise humans if it is embraced with values. He added that Malaysia will never abandon values and morals, and self-identity. 

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 or be left behind, he added. 

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