PM Stresses Ethical Foundation in AI and Digital Transformation at ICOSH 2025

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 11 (VOM): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim underscored the importance of embedding human values and ethics into artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation, warning against the risks of technological progress divorced from humanity.

Speaking at the opening of the International Conference on Social Sciences and Humanities (ICOSH) 2025 in Putrajaya on Thursday, Anwar highlighted both the opportunities and challenges posed by AI and rapid digitalization.

He praised Malaysia’s progress in attracting major investments in semiconductors and the electrical and electronics (E&E) sector, while commending public universities for swiftly establishing new AI faculties and accelerating research and training in the field.

However, Anwar cautioned against the “productivity paradox,” where massive investments in AI and digital technology do not translate into proportionate productivity gains. He also warned of the widening digital divide, which could undermine social justice and leave rural communities further behind.

“No matter how advanced technology becomes, it cannot be separated from human values,” he said. “AI will only be just and beneficial if it is rooted in ethics, culture, history, and morality consistent with our values and convictions so that it reflects truth, not just intelligence without a soul.”

Drawing parallels to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Anwar criticized the misuse of advanced technologies and AI in legitimizing oppression and violence. He stressed that technological sophistication should not drown out compassion and empathy.

“As we strive to ‘reach for the skies,’ we must never forget to ‘stay rooted to the earth,’ anchored in values, culture, history, religion, and morality,” he concluded.

@Voice of Malaysia News

@Photo/PMO