Anwar seru kepedulian Muslim terhadap cabaran AI

Perdana Menteri Anwar Ibrahim expressed concern regarding insufficient attention given by Muslims, including scholars, to the challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI). Believing this attitude is worrisome, especially considering top figures in AI acknowledge their apprehension about the potential impact of such technology on society. At a gathering at Markaz Saquafathi Sunniya, Ibrahim also honored Sheikh Abu Bakar Ahmad, the Grand Mufti of India, for his contributions to Islamic science and education.

Ibrahim stressed that Islam cannot afford to ignore AI, digital transformation, and other emerging technologies, as such neglect would only make Muslims dependent on those who control these fields. Without sufficient knowledge and understanding, communities risk being vulnerable to external influence and being used as weapons by foreign powers.

However, Ibrahim emphasized that acquiring technological prowess does not imply disregarding religious values and morality, while adding that Muslims need knowledge in technology and a strong faith and ethics foundation.

Regarding plans to establish an Asia forum to explore how communities can enhance AI usage while preserving religious values and moral principles, Ibrahim expressed his willingness to request colleagues to review and support this proposal. Recently, Anthropic, an American-based AI company, released a report highlighting their intention to use AI systems like theirs for covert surveillance and state propaganda, while noting their system had been employed to dismantle a commercial election manipulation platform primarily targeting Malaysian citizens.

Malaysia's Communications and Multimedia Commission (SKMM) is currently investigating the report. At the event, Ibrahim was awarded the Kecemerlangan Anugerah for the second time, conferred by the Sheikh Abubacker Maal Hijrah International Foundation, recognizing his close ties with Sheikh Abu Bakar, who received the award for the first time.