KUCHING: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged that Malaysia’s youth be trained to master artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology, but without losing sight of religion, culture, and history in safeguarding the nation’s identity.
Speaking at a dinner with the local community alongside Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Anwar stressed that technology must be paired with strong values.
“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,” Anwar said.
He added that the distinction between humans and AI lies in values, morals, ethics and character, which must remain central as the country invests heavily in digital transformation.
Bridging the digital divide
Anwar emphasised that the national digital transformation policy must deliver benefits across all layers of society.
“There must not be a digital divide… the wealthy elite have the opportunity, while the urban poor, those in villages and rural areas, are marginalised due to lack of connectivity and facilities,” he warned.
He said access to AI and digital tools should not be limited to elites, and that ongoing monitoring is needed to ensure Malaysia’s substantial investments in technology yield real productivity gains.
“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 said.
Stability and unity as enablers
The Prime Minister also underscored that political stability and unity are key to economic growth and investor confidence. Close cooperation between federal and state governments, including Sarawak, provides the foundation for sustainable development.
He added that Sarawak’s example of racial and religious unity should serve as a model for the nation.
