KUALA LUMPUR: The National Artificial Intelligence Action Plan, providing a clear governance structure on the technology, is being finalised, the Dewan Rakyat was told.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the plan will look into maintaining a balance between security and privacy.
According to the minister, it will be based on three principles – transparency and accountability, privacy-by-design and security-by-design, and also retaining a human touch.
"Each artificial intelligence model must be auditable clearly, including who is the party responsible if there are violations or misuse."
"Privacy-by-design and security-by-design must also be considered from the algorithm design stage to protect personal data, and not added as an afterthought."
"At the same time, artificial intelligence cannot be given absolute power yet. A human touch must be retained to avoid critical mistakes, discriminations or bias," he said during question time on Wednesday (Aug 20).
The minister added that the plan will also take into account legal aspects including the Personal Data Protection Act and the Cybersecurity Act.
As Asean chair, Gobind said Malaysia is spearheading the formation of the Asean AI Safety Network to ensure the technology can be implemented in a safe and responsible manner.
This includes the formation of a regional artificial intelligence safety framework, drafting artificial intelligence safety standards, capacity building, promoting safe and responsible practices alongside the formation of a multi-stakeholder working group to explore safe usage across fields like healthcare and agriculture.
"At the same time, Malaysia is also spearheading efforts to prepare the Asean Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy 2026-2030 which takes into account cybersecurity challenges posed by artificial intelligence," he said.
He added that Malaysia’s stance is clear in wanting to ensure the technology is used to enhance cybersecurity, protect privacy rights and build trust.
"We are committed to ensuring it is not just used as a technology but a responsibility that is preserved ethically, safe and human-centric," he said.
He was responding to a question from Datuk Seri Doris Sophia Brodi who asked about measures to ensure artificial intelligence usage in cybersecurity complies with ethical principles and privacy.
