KUALA LUMPUR, June 13 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has underscored the critical role of Islamic scholars in guiding society through the challenges of rapid technological advancement, particularly in the era of artificial intelligence (AI). Speaking at the opening of the 4th Southeast Asia Scholars Conference 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, Zahid said technological progress must be anchored in strong ethical and moral values to ensure it benefits humanity and contributes positively to societal development. The conference gathered approximately 600 Islamic scholars, muftis, academics, researchers and intellectuals from across the ASEAN region to discuss contemporary issues affecting the Muslim community. Zahid noted that while economic and geopolitical challenges continue to dominate global discourse, a growing crisis of values, manners and wisdom within society poses an equally significant concern. "Technological advancements, including AI, data analytics and innovation, must be utilised responsibly and guided by ethical principles. The framework of Maqasid Syariah should continue to serve as a compass in shaping policies and development that prioritise human welfare and societal well-being," he said. The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of intellectual diplomacy among Islamic scholars in Southeast Asia, stressing that stronger regional cooperation can help build consensus on key issues facing the ummah and generate practical solutions to emerging challenges. He called on scholars and religious institutions to continue fostering dialogue, research and collaboration to ensure that technological progress remains aligned with the values of justice, compassion and social responsibility. Zahid also commended the Muslim World League (MWL) and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) for their continued efforts in organising the conference and promoting scholarly engagement across the region. He expressed hope that the discussions and deliberations held during the conference would strengthen the unity of the Muslim community, elevate the role of knowledge in nation-building and deliver lasting benefits to Southeast Asia and beyond. The three-day conference serves as a platform for regional scholars to exchange ideas and address contemporary challenges affecting Muslim societies in an increasingly digital and interconnected world. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB ZAHID HAMIDI

Datuk Seri Dr. Zahid Hamidi Calls for Ethical AI Development Guided by Islamic Values at Southeast Asia Scholars Conference

KUALA LUMPUR, June 13 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has underscored the critical role of Islamic scholars in guiding society through the challenges of rapid technological advancement, particularly in the era of artificial intelligence (AI).

Speaking at the opening of the 4th Southeast Asia Scholars Conference 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, Zahid said technological progress must be anchored in strong ethical and moral values to ensure it benefits humanity and contributes positively to societal development.

The conference gathered approximately 600 Islamic scholars, muftis, academics, researchers and intellectuals from across the ASEAN region to discuss contemporary issues affecting the Muslim community.

Zahid noted that while economic and geopolitical challenges continue to dominate global discourse, a growing crisis of values, manners and wisdom within society poses an equally significant concern.

“Technological advancements, including AI, data analytics and innovation, must be utilised responsibly and guided by ethical principles. The framework of Maqasid Syariah should continue to serve as a compass in shaping policies and development that prioritise human welfare and societal well-being,” he said.

The Deputy Prime Minister also highlighted the importance of intellectual diplomacy among Islamic scholars in Southeast Asia, stressing that stronger regional cooperation can help build consensus on key issues facing the ummah and generate practical solutions to emerging challenges.

He called on scholars and religious institutions to continue fostering dialogue, research and collaboration to ensure that technological progress remains aligned with the values of justice, compassion and social responsibility.

Zahid also commended the Muslim World League (MWL) and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) for their continued efforts in organising the conference and promoting scholarly engagement across the region.

He expressed hope that the discussions and deliberations held during the conference would strengthen the unity of the Muslim community, elevate the role of knowledge in nation-building and deliver lasting benefits to Southeast Asia and beyond.

The three-day conference serves as a platform for regional scholars to exchange ideas and address contemporary challenges affecting Muslim societies in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.

— MINUTESMY
— SOURCE: FB ZAHID HAMIDI

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