The launching of Artificial Intelligence Governance and Ethics Guidelines (AIGE) was held on 20th September 2024 at the Putrajaya Marriott Hotel.
AIGE is a framework designed to ensure the safe use of AI technology through compliance with the seven principles of responsible AI. These guidelines focus on three categories, which are the end users (the public), policy makers, and developers and technology providers. It is an important component to support the development and use of AI in addition to raising awareness and promoting responsible AI compliance throughout the country using the principles of “AI for Malaysia, AI for All”.
The opening speech was given by YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital.
YB Gobind Singh Deo spoke of the overall large acceptance of AI by Malaysians, stating that “According to the 2024 Employment Trend Index report by Microsoft and LinkedIn, 84% are knowledge workers in Malaysia using GenAI compared to the global average of 75%. At the same time, 88% of Malaysia's knowledge workers believe each company needs to use AI, compared to the global average of 77%.”
YB Tuan Chang Lih Kang highlighted the risks and the importance of using AI in a responsible and ethical manner.
“AI governance refers to the framework, policies, and standards that govern how AI is developed, tested, and applied to avoid unethical risks such as bias in decisions, privacy violations, or job loss due to automation. Meanwhile, AI ethics involves moral considerations about the use of technology by ensuring it is used for good, respects human rights and does not harm individuals or groups,” stated the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation.
The ceremony was officially launched by YAB Dato' Sri Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusof, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation.
“These guidelines are not only intended to provide a framework for users, policy makers and providers of AI technology but also to ensure that every step taken is in line with high ethical principles. This includes aspects of security, privacy, freedom and human rights that all need to be prioritised in the use of this technology,” stated the Deputy Prime Minister.
The objectives of the AIGE national guidelines are:
To support the implementation of the Malaysia National AI Roadmap 2021 - 2025
To facilitate the implementation of Responsible AI according to the 7 AI Principles
To build trustworthiness in AI, which is emphasised by Responsible AI.
To manage risks caused by the development and deployment of AI technology.
To maximise the benefits of AI to enhance the national productivity, economic growth and competitiveness.
These Guidelines are developed for the use and reference of three main categories:
Category 1: End Users - Explaining their rights and responsibilities in using this technology, and further empowering them in decision-making using AI-based technology and applications.
Category 2: Policy Makers of Government, Agencies, Organizations and Institution - Assisting policymakers in managing the complex governance of AI in order to strike a balance between technological innovation, inculcating accountability, fairness and minimising AI risk. Not limited to the Government sector, but can also be used as a guide in sectors that develop policies in a specific supply chain.
Category 3: Developers, Designers, Technology Providers and Suppliers - AI has revolutionised various sectors and industries. It is important for every industry player to adopt responsible AI practices to demonstrate their commitment towards ethical and constructive AI practices and trust from the public on the products and services offered.
AI has sparked significant debate due to its transformative potential across various sectors and its impact on society as a whole. Its development and integration are critical to the nation's efforts in driving economic growth, enhancing various socio-economic sectors, strengthening national security, and maintaining competitiveness in the rapidly evolving global landscape. While AI offers numerous benefits, such as expanding opportunities across diverse fields, concerns about its misuse are also growing among the public.
Given the evolving nature of the AIGE framework, the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) encourages the creation of sector-specific AI guidelines to address the unique needs of different industries.Acceptance and compliance with these guidelines will collectively contribute to the advancement of AI in a manner that supports economic growth and societal well-being. MOSTI calls on all stakeholders to join hands in advancing the responsible and ethical use of AI throughout the country.
To view the National Guidelines on AI Governance and Ethics, you may read it on MOSTI’s website here: https://www.mosti.gov.my/dasar/#flipbook-df_74045/1/
This content is provided by Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI).
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