Digital Minister answers AI Robot Sophia's question: Equitable access to technology is key for all generations
The special session held at Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025 aimed to spark curiosity, inspire children and reinforce Malaysia’s commitment to becoming a Digital Nation 2040.
KUALA LUMPUR - At the Smart City Expo Kuala Lumpur 2025, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo engaged in a unique dialogue with Sophia the Robot, one of the world’s most recognisable artificial intelligence (AI) creations.
The session, designed to inspire Malaysia’s youth and highlight the country’s digital ambitions, drew attention when Sophia posed a thought-provoking question:
“How can we make sure technology helps everyone, even smaller dreamers like children?” she asked Gobind.
The Minister Digital then responded with a clear message on the government’s vision for inclusive digital access.
“For humanity to move forward, it is vital that we build an ecosystem where access to technology is equitable for all, regardless of age, background or circumstance.
“This access must not only be widespread but also secure, providing users with confidence that technology can be a positive force in their lives. The ultimate goal is for technology to serve as a tool that empowers people, helping them improve their futures and unlock new opportunities.
“This is precisely the focus of the Digital Ministry—working to develop the right infrastructure, ensuring safety and security in its use and fostering greater awareness and adoption so that everyone, from children to adults, can make the most of it,” he said during the event at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC).
The special session, titled “Gobind Singh Deo and Sophia the Robot: Engaging the Young”, was part of the Expo’s mission to spark curiosity, inspire children and reinforce Malaysia’s commitment to becoming a Digital Nation 2040.
Its objectives went beyond a simple showcase of robotics. The programme sought to inspire Malaysia’s youth, particularly through the Digital Ninjas initiative, promote digital literacy and humanise technology by making AI interactive, fun and accessible.
About 40 students, including five Digital Ninjas and children from Pusat Jagaan Amal Asyura, were invited to interact with Sophia first-hand.
Sophia the Robot, created in 2016 by David Hanson of Hanson Robotics, has become an international symbol of AI.
She has appeared on global stages from the United Nations (UN) to the Global Entrepreneurship Summit and in 2017 became the first robot in history to be granted citizenship by Saudi Arabia. Her debut in Kuala Lumpur highlighted Malaysia’s ambition to position itself as a regional leader in AI and robotics.
The presence of distinguished guests, including Digital Ministry Secretary General Fabian Bigar, Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Datuk Azman Ismail, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil, DNB Chief Corporate Officer Datuk Ahmad Zaki Zahid and Sophia’s creator David Hanson, further reinforced the significance of the event.
The dialogue between Gobind and Sophia highlighted Malaysia’s determination to bridge global innovation with local talent. It also showcased how AI and robotics are not abstract concepts but real tools that can empower future generations.
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