Toward Responsible AI: Why Malaysia Must Lead in AI Safety and Governance in Southeast Asia
This week the UK and Singapore signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on Collaboration on the Safety of Artificial Intelligence solidifying efforts in this space between the countries since 2022 Digital Economy Agreement. The focus on AI safety by countries across the globe underscores the growing global commitment to responsibly advancing AI in a landscape where these systems are increasingly pervasive across sectors. This article considers Malaysia's potential role in AI safety and governance in the region.
AI Safety AT A GLANCE
While still evolving in its definition, at its core, AI safety refers to the field of research and policy focused on minimizing the risks associated with AI systems, ensuring these technologies operate in a manner that is predictable, reliable, and aligned with human values. These risks emerge from the nature of AI systems, particularly machine learning models. The Center for Security and Emerging Technologies (CSET) described this problem as follows:
“…unlike the mathematical and computational tools commonly used in engineering, modern machine learning methods do not come with safety guarantees. While advances in fields such as control theory have made it possible to build complex physical systems, like those found in various types of aircraft and automobiles, that are validated and guaranteed to have an extremely low chance of failure, we do not yet have ways to produce similar guarantees for modern machine learning systems. As a result, many machine learning systems cannot be deployed without risking the system encountering a previously unknown scenario that causes it to fail.”.
On one hand, the technical aspect is critical to AI safety, however, AI safety also extends to wider societal implications related to ethics, fundamental rights and values and even existential questions of autonomy.
The importance of Malaysia engaging in the discourse
Global concerns in this space were raised particularly in the Bletchley AI Safety Summit in 2023 which resulted in the Bletchley Declaration signed by 28 countries. However, Malaysia was notably absent from this summit and has yet to sign on to the Bletchley Declaration. This absence places Malaysia at a crossroads. It can either remain a passive observer of AI safety standards set by other nations or actively participate and influence the evolving narrative, thereby positioning itself as a regional leader in AI governance.
In the wake of the Bletchley Summit, both the UK and the US swiftly established dedicated AI safety institutes, signaling a strong commitment to shaping the global AI safety landscape. The UK, in particular, has taken a proactive approach, engaging with numerous countries in an effort to harmonize standards, policies, and regulations. This forward-looking strategy not only positions the UK as a leader but also demonstrates an intent to consolidate influence over international AI safety practices. For Malaysia, engaging in this discourse is more than a choice; it is a strategic imperative.
Why Malaysia Should Take a Leadership Role in AI Governance
Regional Influence and Economic Competitiveness
As Southeast Asia’s digital economy continues to grow, Malaysia has the opportunity to assert its leadership in AI governance within the region. By taking an active role in international discussions, Malaysia can influence AI safety standards that align with its unique socio-economic and cultural landscape. This involvement will not only enhance Malaysia's credibility as a forward-thinking digital hub but also attract foreign investment, particularly from global technology companies that prioritize regions with robust AI governance frameworks.
Protecting National Interests and Cultural Values
AI safety is about more than technical standards; it encompasses ethical considerations and societal impacts. As global AI norms develop, Malaysia must ensure that its values and national interests are adequately represented. By joining the discourse, Malaysia can advocate for policies that respect its diverse population and prioritize inclusive, culturally sensitive AI practices. Participation would allow Malaysia to prevent the imposition of external standards that may not align with local needs, protecting its sovereignty in technological governance. This is in line with Malaysia’s National Guidelines on AI Governance and Ethics which calls for alignment of AI governance with national values vide the Rukun Negara.
Building Public Trust and Confidence in AI Technologies
As Malaysia adopts AI across public and private sectors, building public trust in these technologies is crucial. Active participation in international AI safety discussions allows Malaysia to implement globally recognized standards, reinforcing public confidence that AI technologies are being developed and deployed responsibly. Demonstrating a commitment to AI safety through both policy and practice will be essential for fostering a digital economy where citizens feel protected and empowered.
Driving Innovation and Supporting a Knowledge Economy
Participation in global AI safety efforts can stimulate innovation within Malaysia’s AI ecosystem. Engagement with leading AI institutes and policymakers allows Malaysia to access the latest research, best practices, and technological advancements. This access will enable Malaysian businesses and researchers to build safer, more reliable AI applications, thereby enhancing the country’s global competitiveness. Furthermore, by investing in AI governance research and infrastructure, Malaysia can nurture a knowledge-based economy that produces skilled AI professionals and attracts international talent.
Ensuring Regional Stability and Security
With its strategic position in Southeast Asia, Malaysia plays a key role in regional security. AI safety extends to concerns about AI misuse in cyber-attacks, disinformation, and surveillance. Malaysia’s proactive involvement in global AI safety initiatives can support ASEAN-wide security, providing a framework to mitigate risks associated with malicious AI use. Malaysia can help shape a regional approach to AI security that addresses shared challenges, strengthens alliances, and promotes stability.
Charting a Path Forward: Malaysia’s Role in Shaping AI Governance
To assume a meaningful role in AI safety governance, Malaysia could consider the following actions:
Joining International AI Safety Agreements: Malaysia should evaluate the potential benefits of signing onto the Bletchley Declaration or similar international AI safety initiatives. Doing so would signal Malaysia’s commitment to global standards and strengthen its voice in AI governance forums. It should be noted that Malaysia has in fact engaged with UK on AI governance related issues in 2023 at a conference held in Malaysia.
Establishing a National AI Safety Institute: Similar to the UK and US, Malaysia could benefit from a dedicated AI safety body that works on policy research, regulatory standards, and public engagement in AI governance. This institute could lead research into culturally relevant AI ethics, data sovereignty, and safety protocols tailored to Malaysia’s needs. Noting the government’s intention to set up a National AI Office in 2024, the AI safety portfolio could be housed within this Office.
Engaging with ASEAN and Regional Bodies: Malaysia could spearhead efforts to establish regional AI safety guidelines within ASEAN, fostering a collaborative approach to AI governance across Southeast Asia. Regional cooperation would amplify Malaysia’s influence and support consistent standards that align with local values. It is an optimal time to consider this approach as Malaysia is preparing to chair ASEAN in 2025.
Investing in AI Literacy and Public Awareness: By promoting AI literacy and raising awareness of AI safety measures, Malaysia can ensure that its citizens are informed participants in the AI-driven future. Public education initiatives, aligned with global best practices, would help Malaysians understand both the benefits and risks associated with AI technologies.
Engaging in the global discourse on AI safety is not just an opportunity for Malaysia; it is a necessary step in shaping a digital future that is secure, inclusive, and economically prosperous. Through proactive involvement, Malaysia can help lead the region in establishing responsible AI governance, setting a benchmark for others to follow, and ensuring that the benefits of AI are widely shared across society.
Toward a Safe and Trustworthy AI Future
As AI systems continue to evolve rapidly, the complex challenges they present—ranging from safety to ethics and security—are too vast for any single nation to address alone. AI safety will inevitably require coordinated, intergovernmental collaboration to establish unified standards and protocols that mitigate risks effectively across borders. Malaysia’s engagement in these discussions, through formal agreements or other collaborative frameworks, will be essential not only to safeguard its own interests but also to contribute to a shared global vision of responsible AI. By joining and leading regional and international efforts, Malaysia can help build a cohesive AI safety landscape that fosters trust, innovation, and resilience in an interconnected world, ensuring AI serves humanity's collective good.