Kuala lumpur: The government has imposed restrictions on the establishment of new data centres that are not related to artificial intelligence (AI) for nearly two years to alleviate pressure on the national power grid and water supply, announced Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Anwar acknowledged the increase in energy and water consumption due to the operation of data centres. He stated that current projections show Malaysia can still ensure a sufficient supply of these resources. Anwar clarified during the Ministers' Question Time session in the Dewan Rakyat that while new applications for data centres unrelated to AI have been ceased, those contributing to high-technology and AI development would receive approval more easily.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, addressed concerns raised by Datuk Che Mohamad Zulkifly Jusoh (PN-Besut) regarding data centres' energy efficiency and the potential impact on electricity tariffs. Anwar emphasized that long-term solutions include leveraging the ASEAN Power Grid and plans to channel energy from Sarawak to Peninsular Malaysia.
In addressing a query from Rodziah Ismail (PH-Ampang) about the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Bill, Anwar highlighted that the bill will focus on ethical considerations, citizens' rights, and potential risks, differing from the Western approach that prioritizes legal details. He stressed that the bill, currently in the early drafting stage, will undergo stakeholder engagement and a review by a special parliamentary committee before finalization.
Anwar underscored the importance of a comprehensive governance framework for the AI system lifecycle. The framework will cover development, training, implementation, monitoring, and risk management. He assured that existing laws remain enforceable, particularly in terms of materials used as inputs for AI systems and the outputs generated, with enforcement under the Copyright Act 1987.
Anwar concluded by emphasizing the role of the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia in ensuring effective enforcement of relevant laws, highlighting the need for protection of AI system inputs and outputs.