Sharing the world stage: Anwar (fifth from right) joining Apec leaders for a group photo in Gyeongju, South Korea. — Bernama
GYEONGJU: While Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) economies, including Malaysia, are aggressively pursuing development powered by digital transformation and AI, they must do so without losing sight of moral values and environmental responsibility, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“Our goal is not a world where machines define our destiny.
“Our goal is a future where AI amplifies human creativity, strengthens communities and enriches the human spirit,” he told Apec economies during one of Malaysia’s interventions at the Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting, Bernama reported.
The Prime Minister cited a reminder from German philosopher Martin Heidegger that the essence of technology lies not in the machines built but in how technology reshapes people’s thinking, behaviour and sense of purpose.
“I believe to remain human, this issue must be addressed, and Apec must lead,” he said.
Recognising the importance of technology and AI, the Prime Minister said Malaysia is also actively promoting AI and the semiconductor sector, as the country believes technology has the power to elevate civilisation.
While Apec economies build infrastructure for an AI-enabled economy, Anwar said this ambition must be matched with commitments to renewable energy, sustainability and responsible stewardship.
Data centre growth, for example, must move in tandem with the green agenda and the duty to protect the well-being of future generations, he added.
He pointed out that Apec economies should take note of their accessibility and digital divide to ensure there are no discriminatory practices in terms of the utilisation of new technology.
“We support harnessing AI to improve knowledge, accelerate innovation, expand opportunity and uplift society. We welcome data centre investment, digital capacity building and the promise of new jobs and new industries,” he said.
Earlier, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said that despite the current global headwinds, Apec remains a vital platform for dialogue, trust and collective progress.
“The path ahead is not simple but I believe within Apec’s history, we can find the answers to overcome today’s difficulties,” he said.
Lee said cooperation and solidarity are the surest way forward towards a better future.
