Netizens use their power correctly to criticize AI poster use - Zahiril Adzim

Malaysian actor Zahiril Adzim has lauded netizens for their firm stance in criticizing the Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA) over its use of artificial intelligence in a recent poster. The poster, intended to congratulate Datuk Syafinaz Selamat on her appointment as Distinguished Adjunct Professor at UPSI, featured an AI-generated image, which sparked significant backlash.

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AI has all sorts of issues now. I think we need to use technology wisely and not rely on it 100 percent.

Zahiril, who is also an alumnus of ASWARA, expressed his surprise at the institution's decision. He emphasized that while AI technology has its uses, it should not be relied upon entirely, especially in a field that values human talent and creativity. "We learn here (at ASWARA) because of talent, and that talent is our source of livelihood. So, the use of technology must be in line and balanced with the existing talent," Zahiril told Utusan Malaysia.

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We learn here (at ASWARA) because of talent, and that talent is our source of livelihood. So, the use of technology must be in line and balanced with the existing talent.

He further elaborated that AI should serve as an auxiliary tool for generating initial concepts, rather than producing final outputs that sideline human touch. Zahiril shared his own experience in graphic design, where he uses AI for rough ideas before refining and improvising. He stressed that developing artistic talent requires extensive training and dedication, and that neglecting this could lead to the loss of valuable skills over time.

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AI should only function as a tool to find initial ideas, not as a final product that sidelines human touch.

The actor commended the social media users for their vocal criticism, which ultimately led to ASWARA's decision to remove the poster. "From that, we can see netizens using their power in the right place. They condemned in the right place until the relevant party realized the mistake they made," he remarked. Zahiril believes that while ASWARA might have had its reasons, the incident demonstrated the power of public feedback in holding institutions accountable, particularly in matters concerning the integrity of artistic expression.

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From that, we can see netizens using their power in the right place. They condemned in the right place until the relevant party realized the mistake they made.