M’sia Leads Efforts To Advance AI Governance Via ASEAN AI Safety Network – Gobind

KUALA LUMPUR, July 29 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will lead efforts to enhance regional cooperation through the establishment of the ASEAN AI Safety Network, a platform aimed to advance shared standards for artificial intelligence (AI) governance, ethics and cross-border innovation, in line with its ASEAN chairmanship this year.

For that purpose, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said that trust must be embedded in the foundations of the digital ecosystem for meaningful and inclusive digital transformation to succeed.

He said instead of dictating fixed solutions, the Ministry of Digital is focused on creating enduring frameworks that empower innovation to grow responsibly.

“This includes a commitment to continuous engagement by listening, learning and collaborating with like-minded partners to ensure today’s decisions lay the groundwork for a secure, inclusive and future-ready digital landscape.

“Malaysia is unwavering in its resolve to ensure that all digital development reflects the shared values of dignity, opportunity and progress for all,” he said in a statement today.

At the ASEAN-China Forum on Digital Cooperation in Shanghai yesterday, Gobind proposed the establishment of certification frameworks for AI systems to support responsible AI adoption, including the use of large language models (LLMs).

He said these certification frameworks are intended to ensure that AI technologies reflect national priorities, cultural contexts and public expectations, thereby instilling trust at every stage of deployment, adding that they will act as both safeguards and enablers, reinforcing confidence in the technologies that power Malaysia’s digital economy.

During his speech, Gobind also reaffirmed that trust is the foundation of effective and inclusive digital transformation.

He said as Malaysia advances its position as a digital leader in the region, trust continues to guide national strategy, shape international partnerships and underpin the development of emerging technologies.

Though AI is expected to contribute USD17.5 trillion to the global economy by 2030, which will reshape sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture and logistics, he said, realising this potential requires not just innovation but governance structures that inspire trust.

“Malaysia’s emphasis on ethical, inclusive and transparent digital policy has attracted global recognition, with RM163.6 billion in digital investments secured in 2024, a testament to growing international confidence in the country’s digital vision,” he said.

-- BERNAMA