Kuala lumpur: Artificial intelligence (AI) needs to be viewed as a tool capable of strengthening the creative process in the arts industry, particularly in music and filmmaking, rather than replacing the role of creators. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil emphasized the importance of maintaining the human element in creativity to ensure the future of the industry remains relevant.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi highlighted that the creative process is fundamentally anchored on human ideas and touch. He stressed the significance of preserving this aspect, especially in fields like music and filmmaking, where AI can assist but not replace creators. Fahmi remarked, "For me, the creative act is still a human act, and this is something that, to me, is important. Not only for the future of the creative industry, especially in music, but if we look at filmmaking, AI is also used, for example, to produce mood boards."
Fahmi addressed reporters at the Communications Ministry's 'Kasih Ramadan' and Iftar programme at the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute (IPPTAR). The event was attended by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, and IPPTAR director Datuk Roslan Ariffin. Also present were Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) Chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai and Chief Executive Officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin.
Fahmi elaborated that more discussions need to be held with relevant bodies like Music Authors Copyright Protection Bhd (MACP), Recording Performers Malaysia Bhd (RPM), and Public Performance Malaysia Bhd (PPM) to determine the use of AI in music, ensuring it does not negatively affect creators. He added, "This is so that we can determine the limits that are acceptable to composers, lyricists and everyone involved in the music industry. I believe that AI will not replace artistes, but those who will replace the artistes are those who master the use of AI."
To expand the use of AI, Fahmi mentioned that the Communications Ministry has requested IPPTAR to continue providing training to more staff from agencies and departments under the ministry. IPPTAR is one of the earliest institutes to introduce AI-related training modules, aiming to improve the skills of civil servants.
Earlier in the day, Fahmi officiated IPPTAR's 55th Year Celebration, marking the institute's establishment in 1971. He noted the significance of March 10 in the institute's history, as it was the date in 1975 when the third Prime Minister, the late Tun Hussein Onn, named the institute IPPTAR.
At the 'Kasih Ramadan' and Iftar programme, Fahmi presented Tabung Kasih@HAWANA contributions to 10 media practitioners, including industry veterans facing health problems and hardship, to assist them in preparing for Hari Raya Aidilfitri. This initiative appreciates the services and contributions of media practitioners in delivering information to the community. Since its introduction in April 2023, the Tabung Kasih@HAWANA initiative has benefited 668 media practitioners nationwide. It was implemented by the Communications Ministry through BERNAMA in conjunction with the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2023 to strengthen the welfare of the media community.