IBM: Empowering Malaysia’s Businesses with Responsible AI

KUALA LUMPUR: Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has emerged as a transformative force across various industries worldwide, and Malaysia is no exception.

It is expected to unlock an astounding estimated worth of US$113.4 billion in productive capacity, propelling Malaysia’s position as a high-income nation.

This is equivalent to one-quarter of the country's 2022 gross domestic product, according to Deputy Economy Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib.

General Manager and Technology Leader, IBM ASEAN, Catherine Lian, said, businesses in Malaysia can leverage GenAI to augment human creativity and accelerate innovation by driving operational efficiency and productivity.

She also highlighted that the industry is reaching a tipping point in the maturity curve for AI in security operations.

“One of the major applications of AI is actually in cybersecurity,” she said during an interview on Niaga AWANI programme on Wednesday.

The Cost of a Data Breach 2023 global survey found that extensively using AI and automation benefited organizations by saving nearly USD 1.8 million in data breach costs and accelerated data breach identification.

When applied to cybersecurity, GenAI can be a business accelerator. It can automate detection, investigate threats, and learn from past incidents to adapt the organization’s response strategies in real-time.

Although AI offers significant economic benefits, the lack of transparency and bias in GenAI and deep fake concerns, highlight the need to address issues before fully embracing AI in business.

“Businesses need AI that they can trust,” Catherine said.

IBM watsonx platform is their latest AI solution for businesses. It's accurate, flexible, and scalable, tailored to each business's needs.

"It is an enterprise-ready AI and data platform to address the challenge of scaling and operationalizing AI. watsonx helps bridge the gap between AI technology and business outcomes, and empowers clients to develop and implement AI models while addressing issues of transparency, privacy, and regulatory compliance," she added.

“When used within an enterprise business setting, accuracy, accountability, explainability, and ethics become the foundation of successful AI-based applications,” Catherine said.

Catherine emphasised that IBM sees the need for proactive, collaborative efforts to ensure responsible usage and development of AI technologies, and is eager to collaborate with governments, companies, academia, and individuals to support the adoption of responsible AI that is aligned with Malaysia's cultural and societal values.