KUALA LUMPUR: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is like a chainsaw, useful in the right hands but extremely dangerous in the wrong ones, says Chief Justice Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh.
The top judge noted AI is no longer a distant possibility, but is already here and being deployed in legal research, contract analysis, predictive analytics, and even in existing judicial decision-making.
However, Justice Wan Ahmad Farid said that although AI might augment judicial work, it could not replace the essence of what a lawyer or judge does.
"The law is not merely a compilation of rules and precedents to be processed algorithmically, but it is a human endeavour. It requires judgment and not just analysis.
"It demands empathy, context, and understanding of the life experiences that bring parties before our cause. Because of wisdom that is forced to experience reflection and an unwavering commitment to justice," he said in his keynote address at the Malaysia Legal Forum 2025 (MLF 2025) here on Saturday (Nov 1).
In its third edition, the MLF 2025 serves as a premier platform uniting members of the judiciary, legal practitioners, and corporate legal leaders to exchange perspectives on evolving legal challenges and developments shaping the Malaysian and regional landscape.
The Malaysia Legal Forum 2025 is organised by Thomson Reuters, supported by the Legal and Business Academy of Malaysia, with the AIAC as its strategic partner.
Justice Wan Ahmad Farid said the law, as everyone knows, is not static; it evolves with society, responds to new challenges, and adapts to technological advancement.
"As judges, lawyers, and legal practitioners, we are the guardians of this evolution. We interpret the law, yes, but we also shape it. Our duty extends beyond the letter of legislation to its spirit to ensure that justice is not only done but is seen to be done, and that it remains accessible, fair, and relevant to all Malaysians.
"To all of you, I say this, embrace change, but do not lose sight of our core values. Pursue efficiency, but not at the expense of justice. Welcome technology, but do not allow it to diminish the humanity that is at the heart of our work," he said. – Bernama
