Fahmi says child safety and cybersecurity must keep pace with AI

Doha, November 9 — Malaysia has underscored the necessity of enhancing cybersecurity and safeguarding children online, while concurrently fostering responsible growth and utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies. Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil highlighted that trust and security are pivotal in enabling individuals to engage confidently in the digital economy, as technological progress continues to transform how people live and work.

He emphasized that innovation must be complemented by suitable protections to safeguard users and foster public confidence in digital technologies. "The Declaration rightfully emphasizes the paramount importance of cybersecurity, child online protection, and the responsible development and deployment of emerging technologies," Fahmi stated at a Ministerial Roundtable co-occurring with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP-26).

Malaysia wholeheartedly endorsed the draft Doha Ministerial Declaration, which outlined an all-encompassing strategy to tackle the prospects and obstacles of digital transformation. The declaration underscored three core priorities aligned with Malaysia's national digital agenda: ensuring robust connectivity, promoting digital inclusivity, and nurturing a secure and trustworthy digital environment.

Fahmi clarified that meaningful connectivity extends beyond mere network coverage to guarantee affordable, dependable, and resilient telecommunications services, thereby supporting communities and economic pursuits. Malaysia also commended the declaration's focus on constructing resilient and sustainable digital infrastructure to ensure the uninterrupted operation of vital communications during crises and disruptions.

The Malaysian minister affirmed that digital transformation must engender opportunities for everyone, irrespective of their geographical location or degree of digital proficiency. He underscored that the Malaysian government remains dedicated to investing in digital skills and capacity development, while concurrently encouraging innovation to enable a broader populace to reap the benefits of the digital economy.

"As AI and other emerging technologies continue to evolve, we must ensure that developing countries and underserved communities are not marginalized," Fahmi remarked. "They should not only have the ability to utilize these technologies but also actively participate in shaping them and reap the advantages they generate." Fahmi further welcomed the declaration's stress on international collaboration and recognized the ITU's crucial role in expanding connectivity, establishing technical standards, and bolstering digital capacity.

He expressed Malaysia's eagerness to collaborate closely with the ITU and other member states to forge a more interconnected and equitable digital future, while simultaneously ensuring heightened safety and equitable prospects for all.