Malaysia Leads Asean Push for Ethical AI Governance at BRICS Summit

Malaysia Pushes for Asean AI Safety Network at BRICS Summit

At the recent BRICS Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Malaysia took a clear stance on the future of artificial intelligence governance in the region. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who also chairs Asean, introduced the idea of creating an Asean AI Safety Network. This initiative aims to strengthen governance and build capacity around AI within Southeast Asia.

Anwar emphasized the importance of AI serving development rather than domination. He highlighted the need for AI systems that incorporate ethics, reduce inequality, and uphold human dignity. This approach aligns with Malaysia’s broader vision of technology that benefits society rather than exacerbates divides.

Context of the Summit

The summit took place amid a global landscape marked by tension and shifting alliances. Anwar noted that international institutions responsible for cooperation are struggling to keep pace with new geopolitical realities. Trade is increasingly influenced by politics, and technology debates are framed by security concerns. Existing global rules are often inconsistently applied or ignored.

Malaysia’s position is straightforward: multilateralism remains essential for global stability, prosperity, and national sovereignty. However, multilateral efforts must go beyond shared values to deliver practical outcomes that reflect the current fragmented market conditions.

Malaysia’s Strategy in a Fragmented Economy

Economic fragmentation is intensifying with rising tariffs, decoupling, and shifting alliances disrupting previously stable trade flows. Malaysia is actively pursuing a strategy focused on diversification over dependency, resilience over fragility, and regional decision-making instead of external control.

This approach fits well with BRICS’ commitment to an inclusive, rules-based trading system. Anwar also highlighted how Malaysia’s 2025 Asean Chairmanship theme, "Inclusivity and Sustainability," mirrors these priorities.

Technology and Geopolitics

When it comes to technology, Anwar pointed out a growing divide along geopolitical lines. Export controls, national security restrictions, and differing standards are creating parallel technology systems instead of unified frameworks. This fragmentation poses challenges for cooperation and innovation.

In this context, initiatives like the proposed Asean AI Safety Network can play a critical role. By fostering regional collaboration on AI governance, Southeast Asia can build shared standards and capabilities that align with ethical principles and local priorities.

Calls Beyond Technology

Beyond AI and technology governance, Anwar also used the platform to address urgent humanitarian concerns. He called for an end to the genocide in Gaza and atrocities in Iran, underscoring the role global leaders must play in upholding human rights.

Why This Matters for IT and Development Professionals

• Governance frameworks like the Asean AI Safety Network will impact how AI tools are developed, deployed, and regulated across Southeast Asia.
• Understanding regional AI policies can help professionals anticipate compliance requirements and ethical standards.
• Diversification and resilience strategies in trade and technology highlight the importance of adaptable, interoperable AI solutions.

For IT and development specialists interested in staying ahead, exploring relevant AI governance and ethical AI courses can be valuable. Resources like Complete AI Training’s latest AI courses offer practical insights into AI applications with a focus on ethical considerations and regional impact.