Digital future: AI centres can create a network of expertise nationwide. — 123rf.com
Artificial intelligence (AI) study centres should be set up in all public and private universities to drive research and collaborations in the field.
National Association of Private Educational Institutions (Napei)secretary-general Dr Teh Choon Jin said while the government’s proposed AI study centre at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a commendable and forward-thinking step for the future of higher education, replicating the initiative in other universities can create a network of expertise and research collaboration across the country.
“It would allow Malaysia to build a comprehensive ecosystem for AI research, development and education, strengthening its position in the global AI landscape,” he said, adding that there should be collaboration with other public or private universities that are doing research in AI to maximise the benefits of such research for the nation.
During the tabling of Budget 2024 on Oct 13, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the country’s first AI study centre would be set up at UTM with an initial allocation of RM20mil to intensify the exploration of cross-disciplinary AI.
A centralised AI centre for private higher education institutions can facilitate cross-collaboration and knowledge exchange among researchers in the field as well policy formulation and advice, said Vice Chancellors’ Council for Private Universities (VCCPU) chairman Prof Mushtak Al-Atabi.
Budget 2024, said Prof Mushtak, highlighted a lot of potential to propel economic growth, foster job opportunities, and attract international investments.
The latest developments in AI have brought us to a critical juncture where machines are making the leap into the cognitive realm, he added.
“This juncture offers us a unique opportunity to reconfigure our approach to education, economy, community, business and government, fostering a greater pursuit of what truly matters: the realisation of our ultimate potential.
“This involves the discovery and articulation of our purpose and channelling our efforts towards making a positive impact on the world,” he said, adding that the proposed AI centre at UTM is a groundbreaking initiative with far-reaching implications for the future of Malaysia.
By prioritising AI and robotics, the country is on a trajectory to become a technological leader, cultivating the skills necessary for a new era, and promoting a brighter and more prosperous future for all, he said.
“Having said this, while we strive to harness the potential of AI in education, it is crucial to remember the enduring significance of human interaction.
“Education is more than the mere transfer of knowledge; it is about driving purpose, fostering holistic development, nurturing character, and cultivating curiosity.
“As we journey into this brave new world, let’s do so with a strong commitment to ethics, equity, and the holistic development of individuals,” he added.
Teh said the Budget 2024 allocation for the AI centre is a huge stepping stone towards Malaysia’s digital transformation.
“AI is a transformative technology with applications in various sectors, including healthcare, finance, manufacturing and education.
“By investing in an AI study centre, the government is taking a proactive approach to harnessing AI’s potential to drive innovation and economic growth.
“It signals a commitment to leveraging AI as a key driver of Malaysia’s digital transformation,” he said.
UTM vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Ahmad Fauzi Ismail said the country’s first AI study centre, or Faculty of AI, will be multidisciplinary in nature.
The upcoming faculty, he said on the public varsity’s website, will make AI a catalyst for innovation in various fields, including manufacturing, finance, health, agriculture, renewable energy, security, economy and climate change.
UTM, he said, accepts the trust and responsibility of setting up the Faculty of AI to help develop the nation.
The varsity, he said, is also optimistic that the faculty would be able to advance human civilisation following the Malaysia Madani mould.
He said UTM pioneers AI extensively and is already home to the Centre for AI and Robotics (CAIRO), the Big Data Centre (BDC), the IJN-UTM Cardiovascular Engineering Centre, the Institute of Human Centered Engineering (iHumEn), and the Institute for Vehicle Systems and Engineering (IVeSE).
There are more than 100 AI experts across the varsity’s study centres comprising academics from the faculties of computing, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, chemical and energy engineering, sciences, technology and informatics, management, and architecture and surveying; and the Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology (MJIIT).
UTM, he said, has produced various AI-based innovations, such as a high-tech smart robot for inspection and cleaning in tight spaces; a smart robot for wireless search; a smart hologram application for digital security; and a smart social assistant.
