KUALA LUMPUR - The proposed Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Bill has been completed and will be submitted to the Cabinet in the near future, with plans for it to be tabled in the Dewan Rakyat by early 2027.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the Bill would establish a legal framework requiring parties involved in developing, providing or using AI systems to take appropriate responsibility for identifying, assessing and managing potential risks.
He said the proposed legislation would cover AI risk management, accountability among parties involved in AI development and use, as well as mechanisms for reporting and managing incidents.
"This approach aligns with the principle that responsibility should be determined based on one’s role, level of control and the degree of risk associated with an AI system throughout its entire lifecycle,” he said during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Gobind was responding to a question from Datuk Idris Ahmad (PN-Bagan Serai), who sought an update on the drafting of the Bill and about existing legal protections for victims of fraud, identity theft, content manipulation and the misuse of AI.
He said the government was also strengthening cooperation among relevant ministries and agencies through AI Malaysia Berhad, which brings together experts to advise on existing regulatory frameworks and recommend improvements to address emerging technological challenges.
Malaysia is also working with other ASEAN member states to develop a coordinated approach to AI standards and regulation, with the aim of ensuring greater consistency in the region’s regulatory frameworks.
In addition, the government is working to strengthen existing legislation, including the Evidence Act and the Criminal Procedure Code, to improve the handling of technology-related cases, particularly in prosecution and the presentation of evidence in court.
While the proposed Bill is being finalised, Gobind said the government would continue to address threats involving fraud, deepfakes, content manipulation and false information through existing laws.
These include the Penal Code, the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, the Online Safety Act 2025 and the Cybersecurity Act 2024. - BERNAMA