LETTERS: Complex algorithms, statistics, data science, data analytics and coding are common words associated with artificial intelligence (AI).
We know that there has been a boom in AI technology over the past couple of years, as seen in the rise of applications such as ChatGPT, DALL-E and Claude.
Furthermore, semiconductors are the building blocks for the hardware that makes AI possible.
For this reason, Malaysia has taken steps to develop a semiconductor ecosystem by attracting giant companies like Infineon and Intel to set up facilities in Penang.
Another step forward by Malaysia is the collaboration between a United States tech giant and a local company to develop an AI project, estimated to be worth US$4.3 billion.
The move to provide more opportunities for local companies in this area will hopefully strengthen our semiconductor industry and continue growing the AI landscape.
However, software is not the only component crucial to AI development. We must also pay attention to telecommunications.
As AI is being deployed in healthcare, transport, finance, agriculture and education, 5G technology, and possibly 6G technology in the future, is the main driving force for our economic growth in the long term.
It is predicted that in the future, most AI-related jobs will be reliant on telecommunication networks.
This means that telecommunications providers in Malaysia play a crucial role in developing high-speed connectivity as well as security for their users.
We must also focus on the sustainability of AI as the computing power required leads to high energy consumption, potentially causing significant environmental impacts.
Enhancing efficiency through measures such as using existing models, simplifying AI models, and promoting the use of AI only, when necessary, can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with AI.
Looking at current developments, Malaysia is well-positioned to become one of the leading AI hubs in the region as well as in the world.
By integrating these diverse industries and focusing on sustainable practices, Malaysia's future in the AI sector looks promising.
DR MOHD IFWAT MOHD GHAZALI
Senior Lecturer, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times