Malaysia Launches NurAI, World's First Shariah-Compliant LLM Application

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 12 (Bernama) -- The launch of NurAI, the world's first syariah-compliant application, is a technological solution to address factual inaccuracies related to Islamic fatwas and rulings that are often conveyed through artificial intelligence (AI) content related to Islam on Western platforms.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said NurAI, which is based on the Large Language Model (LLM) concept and developed entirely based on Islamic values, not only processes language but also understands manners, preserves the law and upholds the cultural dignity of Muslims.

Ahmad Zahid said this launch also takes into account the fact that most global AI systems are developed in the West, but the values and priorities they bring are not necessarily in line with our way of life and aspirations.

“In fact, there are studies that have found that there are AI content related to Islam on western platforms that contain bias or factual inaccuracies, thus presenting a negative image of our religion and culture.

“We have witnessed how AI systems give answers that contradict Sharia principles when asked about Islamic financial law or quote unauthentic sources when discussing aqidah issues. This is a gap that we must close and Insya-Allah, I am confident that NurAI can do it,” he said.

He was officiating the launch of NurAI: The World’s First Shariah LLM here today. Also present was Zetrix AI director Datuk Mohd Jimmy Wong Abdullah.

Ahmad Zahid said this shift is not only a symbol of innovation but also serves as an instrument of technological diplomacy in positioning Malaysia as a leader in Shariah-compliant AI.

“It also opens the door to strategic cooperation with ASEAN countries and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) thus strengthening Malaysia’s influence on the international stage.

"Make this platform the basis for shaping the thinking of the community, answering questions about halal and haram, providing guidance on zakat and faraid, providing Sharia-compliant investment advice openly and ultimately guiding the community based on true and recognised Islamic disciplines," he said.

In the meantime, Ahmad Zahid also hoped that the launch of NurAI would be the beginning of a major movement involving the entire national ecosystem.

“I am very confident that with consistent strategic steps, Malaysia has the potential to become a major digitalisation hub trusted by the Islamic world, especially in this region.

“I am also confident that the AI ecosystem we are developing today will be Malaysia’s legacy for the Islamic world, a legacy centred on knowledge, technology and faith that will be remembered not only by today’s generation but also by our grandchildren in the future,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mohd Jimmy Wong said Zetrix AI plays an important role as the main facilitator in the development of NurAI which not only acts as a technology entity but also becomes the driver for the implementation of the first Islamic AI ecosystem of its kind.

“The development of NurAI has been driven entirely through the regional cooperation framework established through the China ASEAN AI Lab based at Zetrix Tower.

“The launch of NurAI today proves that ASEAN is capable of developing sophisticated AI technology, based on values and culture and competing globally,” he said.

-- BERNAMA