Content Forum backs call for AI regulation to combat digital deception

KUALA LUMPUR: The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) fully supports the recent recommendations made by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) Derek John Fernandez regarding the urgent need for regulatory measures to govern the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in content creation and distribution.

Mr. Fernandez highlighted the critical importance of curbing the misuse of AI technologies, such as deepfakes, which can significantly threaten public peace and national security. He emphasised the necessity for a regulatory framework that mandates clear disclosure when images or videos are generated by AI, thereby preventing the spread of misinformation and protecting individuals from becoming victims of online fraud.

The Content Forum aligns with these recommendations, recognising that they are in perfect harmony with its mission to advocate for the self-regulation of content within Malaysia’s digital space, as outlined in the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Content Code 2022 (Code). This Code highlights the importance of transparency, already requiring disclosures when influencers are used for marketing purposes. Extending these principles to include AI generated content will further strengthen consumer trust and protect the community from misleading information.

The Content Forum Chairman, Rafiq Razali, emphasised the collective responsibility in ensuring the safe use of AI in content creation, stating, "AI has immense potential to revolutionise the content industry, driving unprecedented levels of creativity and efficiency.

Yet, this potential must be managed with careful consideration. It is imperative that the lawmakers, AI service providers, regulators, and content creators work collaboratively to allocate sufficient resources and ensure these technologies are used responsibly. Prioritising user safety and maintaining the integrity of digital content are crucial to fostering a trustworthy content environment."

Consider recent incidents where deepfake videos featuring well-known public figures went viral, causing widespread confusion within the community, and cases where AI-generated content has been used to scam the unsuspecting public with highly believable content. These incidences are a stark reminder of how easily AI can be misused to manipulate information and deceive the public. By implementing regulations like mandating the disclosure of AI generated content, it is possible to mitigate these risks and safeguard the community from digital deception.

Content Forum CEO, Mediha Mahmood, remarked, " When the Internet was first introduced, we could not anticipate the full range of challenges that would arise, from cyberbullying to misinformation. These issues continue to evolve, and Malaysia remains committed to addressing them through effective legislation and regulation. As we stand on the brink of widespread AI adoption, we must learn from past experiences. Pre-empting potential harms through swift and effective regulation is not just prudent—it is essential.”

The Content Forum is confident that by taking proactive measures, we can fully harness the transformative benefits of AI while maintaining a safe and secure digital landscape. It encourages all stakeholders within the digital content ecosystem to work together in developing robust regulatory frameworks that protect user interests and promote innovation.

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