Kuala lumpur: The International Regulatory Conference (IRC) 2026 has emerged as a pivotal event for Malaysia's digital advancement, emphasizing that a resilient future must be built on trusted connectivity, secure-by-design networks, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI). According to BERNAMA News Agency, the conference underscored that genuine data sovereignty requires robust governance, strong encryption, and networks designed with security as a foundational element.
Ericsson's head of security, Dr. Connie McIntosh, highlighted the importance of trust in data sovereignty, stating that it requires secure networks and confidence that data is protected and used responsibly to support Malaysia's digital future. She emphasized that trusted connectivity forms the foundation of Malaysia's digital ambitions, allowing governments, businesses, and consumers to embrace AI, accelerate digital transformation, and support long-term economic growth.
Echoing these views, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia's Media Communication Programme head, Assoc Prof Dr. Sabariah Mohamed Salleh, stated that international conferences like the IRC should serve as platforms for sustained collaboration among regulators, academia, industry, and civil society to produce meaningful outcomes. She cited the example of JomCheck, a Malaysian fact-checking alliance conceived after Malaysian representatives attended a conference in Singapore, highlighting the impact of collaborative efforts.
The two-day conference, organized by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), concluded with discussions on the need for effective governance, responsible platform design, and sustained investment in talent as AI advances. Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia CEO, Mediha Mahmood, emphasized the importance of platform transparency to understand how algorithms and platform design shape user behavior.
Dr. A. Maheshwara Rao from the Ministry of Health Digital Health Division stressed that AI should support human judgment, particularly in healthcare, where accountability and patient safety are crucial. RELATE Malaysia founder Dr. Chua Sook Ning warned against excessive dependence on AI, advocating for AI to complement rather than replace human interaction.
On the talent front, Government-Industry TVET Coordination Body chairman Jamil Salleh and Pinnacle Connexion CEO Khim Chong highlighted the need for industry collaboration in education programs and the development of high-value AI applications. Huawei Malaysia vice-president Eric Hu announced plans to nurture 30,000 Malaysian AI talents over the next three years through training initiatives.
As Malaysia navigates the AI era's rapid advancements, the IRC stands as a beacon of proactive governance and collaboration. The insights and partnerships forged during the conference aim to ensure that Malaysia's digital leap is technologically advanced, ethically grounded, and talent-driven, securing a prosperous and human-centric future for all Malaysians.