Kuala lumpur: Religious authorities must develop Shariah-compliant guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and enhance digital awareness among Muslims through strong religious understanding, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar. He emphasized that technology should serve as a platform for religious outreach, education, and strengthening of faith, rather than being used solely as an economic tool.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Na'im highlighted key challenges in AI, such as the ethical use of data, identity manipulation through voice and facial replication, and the spread of false information that may distort Islamic teachings. He warned that if left unregulated, AI could erode public trust instead of reinforcing it. His remarks were made during the International Conference on Human Sciences and Civilisations (i-CONSCIENCE 2025), organized by Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA).
The biennial conference, themed 'Humanity in the Era of Artificial Intelligence: Preserving Values, Ethics and Cultural Identity', aims to foster new ideas and international collaboration in building an ethical and value-driven civilization amid rapid technological development. Now in its third edition following successful runs in 2020 and 2023, the event brings together over 180 scholars, researchers, and participants from Malaysia and abroad to address the intersection of technology, ethics, culture, and society in the AI age.
Mohd Na'im also cited the 'Islamic Content Guidelines for New Media' issued by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) as a key step in ensuring that digital content remains aligned with the principles of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah. He stressed that Islam is a religion of knowledge, and Muslims must not only be users of technology but also creators and leaders in science, biotechnology, and AI, guided by religious and humanitarian values.
Meanwhile, UMPSA vice-chancellor Prof Dr Yatimah Alias stressed the relevance of the humanities in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. She noted that AI and digital technologies must evolve in tandem with ethics, values, and cultural identity. To build a sustainable and inclusive future, she argued, society must not abandon its heritage, as great civilizations are rooted in strong intellectual traditions and universal human values, not just technological or economic achievements.