AI’s scary growth draws global focus, but not for our politicians

Recent global debates on artificial intelligence (AI) safety have drawn attention to the potential existential risks posed by rapid technological progress. Headlines in Malaysia have focused on political rivalries, with parties in the unity government campaigning against each other in various states. However, the true question remains unanswered: what authorities intend to do with the power they seek.

At the same time, US senators and representatives have proposed a ban on artificial superintelligence, while the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights warned of AI that could become too powerful. AI researchers are also sounding the alarm, with some believing that rapid acceleration could lead to catastrophic and irreversible losses of control.

Despite skepticism about the motivations behind these warnings, it is essential to examine the arguments and consider the implications for Malaysia. The country is already hosting the infrastructure for AI systems, and the government's AI Governance Bill, launched in July, aims to address these issues. However, the bill has received little political scrutiny.

Malaysians should demand answers from their politicians regarding the country's energy consumption, the replacement of coal-generated power, and the potential risks associated with AI systems. Failing to address these concerns may indicate a lack of genuine interest in governing effectively.