Global South must have greater say in AI-goverance - Mohamad Hasan

New York - Global South nations must play a more substantial role in shaping artificial intelligence (AI) policies, rather than simply serving as recipients of data centers, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan declared at the UN General Assembly's 81st session. AI is reshaping economies, societies, and governmental decision-making, presenting both immense opportunities and considerable risks, he explained.

The Global South cannot become a passive recipient while decisions regarding AI are made elsewhere, he cautioned during his national address at the UN meeting.

Mohamad emphasized the UN's ongoing responsibility to empower Global South countries, which are likely to face disproportionate consequences from inequitable AI development, to actively engage in global AI discussions. His message was clear: nations in this region must be genuine partners in AI innovation, not just customers, markets, or mere investment destinations.

He stressed the necessity of equitable AI decision-making and equitable development to ensure widespread sharing of AI benefits across borders. Mohamad also highlighted the need to manage the significant resource demands that technological infrastructure imposes on water, energy, land, and other essential resources. He stressed that technology should serve humanity, not the other way around.

He warned against a scenario where a select few entities or countries dictate the rules for everyone else. The Global South, comprising 134 countries and representing approximately 80% of the world's population, according to the UN, must not be sidelined in these critical discussions. Currently, Mohamad is in New York from September 23 to 27, in support of Malaysia's participation at the UN General Assembly.