AI No Longer Futuristic But National Priority Towards Smart Nation - Academician

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 22 (Bernama) -- Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved from being a futuristic idea into a national priority under the Malaysia MADANI framework, according to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Industry and Community Partnerships Affairs) Prof Dr Faizal Mohamed.

He said Malaysia’s path toward becoming a smart nation is guided by strategic frameworks such as the National Artificial Intelligence Roadmap, MyDigital initiative, and the 12th Malaysia Plan.

“These blueprints recognise that AI is more than a tool for efficiency. It is a catalyst for economic resilience, public sector innovation and social progress,” he said at the opening of the 'Smart Strategy for Smart Nation: AI as a Driving Force for Business and Society’ seminar here today.

Present was UKM-Graduate School of Business (UKM-GSB) Dean, Prof Dr Zafir Khan Mohamed Makhbul.

Faizal said AI is no longer confined to research labs or speculative fiction but has become a transformative force embedded in the way people live, work, learn and lead.

“From urban planning to logistics, from financial services to agriculture, AI is rapidly redefining what is possible.

“As we embrace these advancements, we must also confront significant challenges ranging from data ethics and algorithmic bias to cybersecurity, privacy and equitable access,” he said.

Faizal said these are not only technical issues but deeply societal ones, requiring strategic, inclusive and ethical approaches.

“This is where smart strategy becomes essential. A smart nation is not built by technology alone; it is built by vision, governance and collaboration. It is built by strategies that are holistic, forward-thinking, inclusive and grounded in ethical responsibility,” he added.

Faizal said academia plays a foundational role in shaping the future workforce of Malaysia.

“Through research, curriculum development and critical inquiry, our institutions must nurture ethically grounded, socially conscious AI practitioners who understand not just how AI works, but why it matters and how it must be governed,” he said.

Faizal further highlighted that while academics develop the theoretical and ethical frameworks, industry leaders are at the forefront of practical AI adoption.

“Their ability to embed AI into business strategies is critical for organisational success and for strengthening the nation’s digital ecosystem.

“Policymakers and civil society stakeholders must ensure that AI is used to empower, not displace; to include, not divide; and to build trust, not erode it. These elements form the pillars of Malaysia’s AI ecosystem,” he said.

He noted that AI will continue to shape economies, societies and institutions, but whether it benefits the people depends on the strategies adopted, the values upheld, and the partnerships formed.

“Let today be a step forward toward a Malaysia and ASEAN that are not only technologically advanced, but also ethically grounded, economically inclusive and globally competitive,” he added.

The two-day seminar was organised by UKM through the RHB-UKM Endowment.

The event served as a collaborative platform, uniting thought leaders, innovators, academics, and industry experts to explore the pivotal role of AI in reshaping society and driving national progress.

-- BERNAMA