KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians are excited about the possibilities and efficiency that artificial intelligence (AI) can bring to their daily lives, although older generations are concerned about its risks to job security.
According to the latest report by Telenor Asia, many Malaysians were already using AI tools in their daily lives.
"People are positive about AI's impact on society, particularly on education, signalling the potential for AI to play a pivotal role in making education more accessible and adaptable to different learning needs.
"However, job security is a top concern, especially among older generations," it said.
The third year of the "Digital Lives Decoded" study focuses on how mobile connectivity enables people to live smarter and safer digital lives.
The report is based on a survey Telenor Asia commissioned GWI to undertake in June and July 2024, interviewing 1,004 Malaysians.
It also includes data from GWI's ongoing market research in Malaysia.
Based on the report, more than one in two Malaysians (55 per cent ) are excited about the possibilities and efficiency that AI can bring to their daily lives, with significant interest in its ability to solve problems, research and create.
However, people's trust in AI-generated information is divided, with financial and medical advice inviting the greatest scepticism.
As Malaysia sets itself up for a future where AI-integrated devices are automating tasks and offering hyper-personalised experiences, increasing amounts of data from the user will be harvested.
"To get the most out of AI, responsible use and building trust is key as Malaysian respondents highlight concern related to potential misuse of personal data and spread of misinformation."
Among the reasons that Malaysians think the benefits of using a mobile device outweigh the risks is the connectivity and easy access to information.
There are also various ways to entertain themselves as well as increased productivity and a more efficient daily life.
"They also feel physically safer with a mobile phone. 70 per cent cite the ability to quickly call for help in emergencies as the top benefit, followed by features like GPS and navigation apps helping them to avoid unsafe areas and share their location with family and friends.
"Women tend to feel safer knowing they can share their physical location, while men appear to prioritise online safety and security afforded by the mobile phone, placing value on secure mobile payments and security features that protect personal information," the report said.
A large majority of Malaysians are also taking active steps to improve the security on their mobile phones or intend to do so in the future.
About 97 per cent are using at least one privacy measure and 66 per cent claimed to read privacy notices.
Despite this widespread use of privacy tools, the report said nearly four in 10 Malaysians continue to worry about how companies use their personal data online.
"The level of concern around online safety has remained the same in the past five years," it noted.