IPOH: Existing laws need to be amended to keep up with rapidly advancing technology and to prevent the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI), especially in cybercrime cases, says Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang (pic).
He said the relevant laws include the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Act and the Penal Code.
“Technology is advancing very quickly, so we need to catch up,” Chang said, adding that Malaysia is still far behind in creating specific laws to regulate AI.
He explained that the National Guidelines on AI Governance and Ethics (AIGE) were only launched last year, and it will take time before a proper AI law can be introduced.
“We have consulted various industry players, and they agree that AIGE should eventually become law. But it will take time.
“This is also the case in many other countries, with the European Union being one of the few that already has such regulations,” Chang told a press conference at the Perak Ignite Entrepreneur Summit 2025 held at SMJK Yuk Choy here yesterday.
He added that AIGE will be used for now to help regulate the AI industry.
“AI is still a new field and we need to explore it together.
“There is no clear timeline yet. But our goal is to eventually have an enforceable AI law,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chang said that discussions on technology and AI will be held at universities across the country to encourage students to get involved in these fields.
He added that his ministry has already launched the “Tech Talks” series, with the first session held at Universiti Malaya.
“We’ve also had a session at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. The third one will be at Universiti Malaysia Sabah.
“We plan to continue touring more universities.
“We are promoting something called the Quadruple Helix model, which includes the government, academia, industry and the community, all working together in the tech and innovation ecosystem.
“We are also encouraging more collaborations between universities and relevant industries,” said Chang.
