Malaysia drafting AI regulations to ensure public interest and national security

The Malaysian government is actively formulating dedicated legislation to govern artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This move is intended to ensure that AI development and deployment align with the public's best interests and the nation's security.

Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, the Minister of Communications, stated that the Ministry of Digital is spearheading the creation of this regulatory framework. The initiative is a proactive response to the swift advancements in AI technology and the complex challenges it presents. Discussions surrounding these new technologies, originating from various conference sessions, will be meticulously reviewed before being presented to policymakers.

"Many of the discussions concerning these new technologies will be brought forward and deliberated either at the Cabinet level or among secretaries-general," Fahmi explained. "This is so that any existing laws that can be improved, or new laws that need to be drafted, can be brought to the Dewan Rakyat, God willing."

This approach is deemed essential for establishing a comprehensive legal structure to manage emerging technological challenges, including AI, while simultaneously fostering responsible innovation. The insights and experiences shared during the International Regulators Conference (IRC) are being used as a reference point for drafting new AI-related laws and enhancing existing legal frameworks. The Online Security Act (ONSA) is cited as an example of legislation that emerged from similar collaborative forums.

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Many of the discussions concerning these new technologies will be brought forward and deliberated either at the Cabinet level or among secretaries-general. This is so that any existing laws that can be improved, or new laws that need to be drafted, can be brought to the Dewan Rakyat, God willing.