Kuching: Young people must be trained to master artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology, without neglecting religion and culture in safeguarding the nation’s identity, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He emphasized that AI training and education must be accompanied by values, morals, ethics, and character to ensure that the use of technology does not erode the nation’s identity.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated, “Our children must be trained to master the technology…they also must be proud of their religion, culture and history, so they can defend our identity,” during a community dinner event. The event was also attended by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

Anwar underlined the importance of values, noting that “what distinguishes humans from AI as machines is values, morals, ethics and character.” He also highlighted that the national digital transformation policy must benefit everyone fairly and should not create a digital divide between the wealthy and those in rural areas.

He pointed out that access to technology, including AI, should not be limited to the elite. “There must not be a digital divide.the wealthy elite have the opportunity, while the urban poor, those in villages and rural areas, are marginalized due to lack of connectivity and facilities,” he stated. Anwar added that the implementation of the digital policy needs to be continuously monitored to ensure that the substantial investment in the sector truly enhances the country’s productivity.

The Prime Minister expressed the necessity for examining whether the large investments in technology, computers, IT, and AI yield productivity results. “We are spending heavily on technology, computers, IT and now AI. We must be prepared to examine whether such large investments yield productivity results,” he remarked.

Furthermore, Anwar stressed the importance of political stability and the spirit of unity as key factors enabling Malaysia to achieve economic growth and gain investor confidence. He highlighted that close cooperation between the federal government and state governments, including Sarawak, forms the foundation for more sustainable national development. He also pointed out that racial and religious unity in Sarawak should serve as an example for the nation.