MIRI: Sarawak’s young people have been urged to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for innovation and progress, while avoiding the temptation to misuse it in education and daily life.

The call came from Saberkas president Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who is also Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts as well as Minister for Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Pujut assemblyman Adam Yii Siew Sang on Saturday.

He was speaking at the closing of the Artificial Intelligence Literacy Programme for Saberkas’ Northern Zone branch, organised by the Saberkas Sarawak Science, Technology and Innovation sub-committee.

The event drew 60 participants, including Saberkas members and youth association representatives, with five papers presented.

Abdul Karim said the initiative, a first for Saberkas, reflected the organisation’s commitment to building AI awareness among young people.

“We hope the presentations will benefit everyone here, especially our organising committee and the Pujut branch, who partnered with our Science, Technology and Innovation sub-committee to make this programme a success,” he said.

Abdul Karim highlighted Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s vision to position the state as a regional hub for AI research and development.

Through strategic collaboration with academic institutions, industry leaders and government agencies, the Sarawak AI Centre is creating a dynamic AI ecosystem. Among its flagship projects is AI for Smart Agriculture, which applies AI-powered data analytics to boost crop yields and promote sustainable farming.

Other initiatives include predictive analytics in healthcare for early disease detection and AI-driven smart grids to enhance energy efficiency.

To sustain growth, the state has launched AI talent development programmes, formed a dedicated AI unit within the public service, and established an AI data centre to strengthen government capacity.

Sarawak also recently introduced KETEQ AI, a significant milestone under its Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030, which aims to position the state as a high-tech hub in Southeast Asia.

Abdul Karim said the government was committed not only to excellence but to achieving global recognition in innovation, technological advancement and sustainable growth – all underpinned by strong data governance and a secure digital environment to protect system integrity and privacy.

While AI offers unprecedented opportunities, he warned of the risks of irresponsible use, particularly among students.

Initially welcomed as a learning aid, tools such as ChatGPT are increasingly being misused, especially during exam periods.

“If assignments or exam questions are answered wholesale by AI, what are students truly learning?” he asked.

Reports suggest some students now copy and paste AI-generated answers without verifying their accuracy, raising concerns over academic integrity and the dilution of critical thinking skills.

Abdul Karim cautioned that if the trend continues, Malaysia could end up producing “paper graduates” – individuals who appear competent on certificates but lack real knowledge or skills.

He stressed that the goal was not to restrict technology, but to ensure it is used correctly – as a learning aid, not a shortcut to instant success.

“The truth is, knowledge gained too easily is also easily forgotten,” he said.