Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged Muslim scholars and communities to gain a better understanding of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, warning that a lack of knowledge could leave them vulnerable to outside influence.
“Without knowledge, we will fail. Without understanding artificial intelligence, we will be colonized,” Anwar said on Sunday at an award ceremony in Kozhikode, Kerala.
Anwar Calls for Greater Focus on AI
Anwar made the remarks after receiving the inaugural Excellence Award from the Sheikh Abubakr Foundation at the Markazu Saquafathi Sunniyya in Karanthur.
Addressing religious scholars and community leaders, he said they must respond to the changing realities of the modern world. He highlighted the growing importance of technology, new sciences, digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
“We need the knowledge. We need the expertise,” Anwar said.
He said Muslim societies must ensure that technological progress does not weaken their religious and moral values.
Technology Must Be Guided by Ethics
Anwar warned that new technologies could also influence people’s beliefs and values. He said societies that do not understand these technologies may find it difficult to protect their faith and ethical principles.
The Malaysian prime minister said technological advancement should therefore be supported by knowledge, expertise and a clear moral framework.
He also expressed concern that Muslim scholars and communities were not paying enough attention to the challenges created by AI. He noted that leading figures in the technology industry were already discussing the risks linked to the rapid development of artificial intelligence.
Anwar called for greater participation in conversations about AI, saying Muslims should not remain passive users of technologies developed elsewhere.
Award Presented by Indian Grand Mufti
Anwar received the award from Kanthapuram A.P. Aboobacker Musliyar, the Grand Mufti of India and a prominent Sunni scholar.
The Malaysian prime minister visited Kerala after attending the BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi.
