Malaysia Proposes AI Initiatives to ASEAN Secretariat for Regional Growth

Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia plans to propose artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives to the ASEAN Secretariat to ensure that the technology is widely utilised across the region, according to Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Johari, who is the 46th President of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), stated that Malaysia is expected to play a more significant role in leading the ASEAN community toward a deeper understanding of AI. He emphasized the urgent need for AI capabilities as the world becomes more competitive. Malaysia, currently chairing ASEAN, aims to demonstrate its readiness with AI capabilities and serve as a showcase for other ASEAN nations on how to embrace AI advancements.

Johari mentioned that Malaysia might propose to the ASEAN Secretariat to make AI one of the key issues at ASEAN Summits. Malaysia seeks to lead the ASEAN community in becoming more AI-aware by sharing its knowledge with others. These remarks were made during Johari's visit to the 'AI for Malaysia's Future' Exhibition at the Parliament lobby.

The two-day exhibition, which highlights the latest developments in AI technology, is jointly organized by the Parliament of Malaysia, the Ministry of Digital (National AI Office), UNITAR International University, and Microsoft. Johari also noted that UNITAR would offer courses for Members of Parliament and Parliament officials to strengthen their understanding of Malaysia's position in AI.