Combating Scams and Disinformation: Welcome New AI Fact Checker
Can AI Help Combat Misinformation?
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) recently launched Aifa – the Artificial Intelligence Fact-checking Agent – to help counter disinformation. Aifa pulls verified information from official government sources such as Sebenarnya.my and answers user queries based on this knowledge base.
Designed to support Malaysia’s diverse linguistic landscape, Aifa can process information in Malay, English, Chinese, and Tamil (with some limitations for Kadazan-Dusun and Iban). Users can simply ask Aifa a question, and if it doesn’t have the answer, it will suggest credible sources.
Aifa is accessible through Sebenarnya.my and via WhatsApp. To use it, users can simply add Aifa’s WhatsApp number: +60 3-8688 7997. The idea is to encourage people to fact-check information before sharing it, making them more discerning about the messages they receive.
Will it Work?
Public scepticism is high, and the loudest voices tend to be the most critical. Governments, under constant scrutiny, are often cautious in adopting new technologies, as any misstep invites ridicule. There’s little reward for being early and bold – sometimes, waiting can seem like the safest strategy.
Critics will question whether Aifa is even necessary and whether it can keep up with the sheer volume and speed of disinformation. How will its success be measured? Can an AI fact checker evolve quickly enough to stay relevant? And perhaps, most fundamentally, should the government be the ultimate arbiter of truth? What checks and balances are in place?
A Step in the Right Direction
Despite the uncertainties, the government’s decision to explore AI-driven fact checking is bold. The fact that MCMC, the country’s internet regulator, is leading the charge may inspire other government agencies to follow suit, learning from its successes and missteps.
Malaysia is positioning itself as a hub for AI-driven industries, from data centres and semiconductor design to the newly launched National AI Office under the digital ministry. To lead in AI, the government must move beyond policy discussions and start experimenting with practical applications. By deploying AI tools like Aifa, it can better understand AI’s strengths and limitations – and how to maximise its impact.
Conclusion
Aifa is a first step, a toe in the water. It will take time before the government fully immerses itself in AI adoption, let alone master it. But with the right approach, Malaysia has the potential to lead AI deployment in the region. The challenge now is to learn fast – and to ensure that AI tools serve the public interest while maintaining trust and transparency.
FAQs
* What is Aifa?
Aifa is the Artificial Intelligence Fact-checking Agent launched by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to help counter disinformation.
* How does Aifa work?
Aifa pulls verified information from official government sources such as Sebenarnya.my and answers user queries based on this knowledge base.
* What languages does Aifa support?
Aifa can process information in Malay, English, Chinese, and Tamil (with some limitations for Kadazan-Dusun and Iban).
* How can I use Aifa?
Users can access Aifa through Sebenarnya.my and via WhatsApp. To use it, users can simply add Aifa’s WhatsApp number: +60 3-8688 7997.