KUALA LUMPUR: Artificial intelligence (AI) should not be feared but embraced as a “game leveller” that helps women juggle multiple responsibilities, says Wanita MCA treasurer-general Datuk Dr Pamela Yong (pic).
Describing AI as a powerful ally that demands nothing in return, she said AI has allowed women to focus on what’s truly important.
“AI frees us from time-consuming tasks, giving us more precious time to focus on things that truly matter,” she said at the “AI & She: Empowering Women for a Smarter Tomorrow” forum yesterday.
Dr Yong was speaking on “Shaping a Human Centred Future: Women’s Wisdom and Hope in the Age of AI”.
She said women could leverage AI to improve both their personal and professional lives while also enhancing financial independence.
However, she cautioned that the rapid evolution of AI also presents challenges, particularly in education, where students may feel overwhelmed.
“We must consider how AI can enhance human capabilities without overshadowing our intrinsic values. AI should enhance, not replace, human abilities.
“Our goal is to harness AI’s potential to foster collaboration, innovation and emotional intelligence,” she added.
Dr Yong also called for greater female representation in technology and leadership.
“With only a small percentage of women in leadership roles, we must strive to change that.
“AI has the potential to boost productivity, expand markets and improve forecasting. Empowering women to become AI champions is crucial to foster innovation and leadership,” she said.
Wanita MCA secretary-general and organising committee chairman Chan Quin Er said the combination of women’s unique strengths with AI could bring significant societal benefits.
“When women can infuse our emotional intelligence, empathy and warmth into the use of AI to create tools and products, the world will benefit,” she said.
Chan said this synergy is what the forum aimed to achieve, adding that women’s contributions, combined with AI, could be a powerful driver of innovation and well-being.
“We have already seen how much women contribute to society, and with the addition of AI, it is going to be a powerful combination,” she added.
