Ministry Launches Public Sector AI Adaptation Guidelines
The Ministry of Digital has launched the Public Sector AI Adaptation Guidelines, a key initiative to help government agencies adopt artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly. The 158-page guidelines provide an overview of AI, ethical principles, roles and responsibilities of stakeholders, risk management, adaptation methods, and self-assessment templates to help identify the scope and impact of AI within the public sector.
Responsible AI Use in the Public Sector
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo emphasized that the guidelines lay the foundation for responsible and ethical AI use in the public sector, with accountability, transparency, and fairness as its core principles. "We cannot allow AI to become a ‘black box’ that makes decisions without a strong system of checks and balances. At the same time, we must continuously adapt to AI advancements, build workforce capabilities, and ensure that every AI-assisted decision is always made in the best interest of the people," he said at the launching of the Public Sector AI Adaptation Guidelines today.
Development and Availability of the Guidelines
The guidelines were developed by the National Digital Department (JDN) in collaboration with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and are available online at https://www.jdn.gov.my.
Feedback and Continuous Improvement
Gobind explained that feedback on the adaptation of the guidelines would be gathered every three months to ensure continuous improvements, expressing hope that the input received would enhance competency and address emerging challenges. As a follow-up, a national-level public sector AI seminar is planned for August.
Initiative to Help MSMEs Adopt Digital Technology
In a separate press conference, Gobind announced that the ministry will introduce a new initiative in March to help MSMEs adopt digital technology in their businesses. "We have various programmes to engage with MSMEs to discuss the impact of new technologies on their businesses. It is crucial for them to understand that these technologies will transform and elevate their operations," he said.
Challenges Faced by MSMEs
In January, Gobind highlighted that many MSMEs, comprising 97 percent of businesses in the country, were still unprepared to adopt digital technology for further growth.
Conclusion
The Public Sector AI Adaptation Guidelines are a significant step towards ensuring responsible and ethical AI use in the public sector. The guidelines provide a framework for government agencies to adapt to AI advancements, build workforce capabilities, and ensure that every AI-assisted decision is made in the best interest of the people.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the Public Sector AI Adaptation Guidelines?
- The guidelines are a set of best practices for government agencies to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly.
- What are the core principles of the guidelines?
- The guidelines are based on accountability, transparency, and fairness.
- How can feedback be provided on the adaptation of the guidelines?
- Feedback can be provided every three months to ensure continuous improvements and address emerging challenges.
- What is the planned follow-up to the launching of the guidelines?
- A national-level public sector AI seminar is planned for August.