On the ethical AI map with first syariah-aligned LLM

All eyes on AI: Mohd Jimmy and Sirajuddin exchanging documents at the LOI signing during IJPAM 2025 in Iskandar Puteri, Johor. Looking on are Anwar, Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi (left) and Mohd Na’im (second from right). — THOMAS YONG/The Star

ISKANDAR PUTERI: Malaysia is set to strengthen its position as a global leader in ethical artificial intelligence (AI) following a ­landmark collaboration to ­develop the world’s first syariah-aligned large language model (LLM).

The collaboration is between the Islamic Development Malaysia Department (Jakim) and Zetrix AI Berhad, the developer of the LLM dubbed NurAI.

A Letter of Intent (LOI) to esta­blish NurAI framework was exchanged during Ijtimak Perdana Agensi Agama Seluruh Malaysia (IJPAM) 2025 held at a hotel here yesterday.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Setia Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar witnessed the LOI exchange.

The agreement was formalised between Jakim director-general Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee and Zetrix AI director Datuk Mohd Jimmy Wong Abdullah.

Anwar said Malaysia’s push towards digitalisation must remain grounded on Islamic principles and values, ensuring technological progress does not compromise the country’s identity and ethics.

Under the collaboration, Jakim will guide the certification, governance and ethical standards of NurAI, ensuring the platform upholds Islamic teachings while addressing global concerns over trustworthy and transparent AI systems.

Three areas of cooperation have been outlined, which is syariah certification and governance by developing frameworks and ethical guidelines rooted in Islamic principles.

Global advocacy and promotion that will position Malaysia as the centre of excellence for Islamic AI in the fast-growing Islamic digital economy, is projected to reach US$5.74 trillion (RM24.12 trillion) by 2030.

The third area is Jakim’s official channel on NurAI that would provide verified fatwas, halal certification and syariah guidance, while tackling misinformation online.

Meanwhile, Mohd Jimmy said the partnership marked a turning point for Malaysia’s halal ecosystem by extending its reach into the digital economy, particularly in Islamic finance, education and law.

“This collaboration ensures NurAI is not only technologically advanced but also firmly rooted in the ethical and cultural values of our nation,” he said.

Developed locally, NurAI supports Bahasa Malaysia, Bahasa Indonesia, English and Arabic.