THE Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye has called for the implementation of comprehensive regulations and a clear ethical framework to ensure the responsible development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI), citing growing concerns over its potential risks to society.
In a statement released today, he emphasised the need for coordinated efforts between policymakers, technology leaders, civil society, and international organisations to ensure AI serves the public good.
“In an era where AI is rapidly shaping every facet of human life, it is critical that we ensure this powerful technology is developed and deployed with a human-centric approach. We must remember that AI is not just a tool, it reflects the values of those who create it,” he said.
Lee cautioned that the unregulated use of AI could result in serious repercussions, including invasions of privacy, the exploitation of personal data, algorithmic bias leading to injustice, job displacement, economic inequality, and the unchecked proliferation of misinformation and deepfakes.
To mitigate these risks, Lee proposed a regulatory approach built on key principles. These include enacting AI accountability laws to clearly define legal responsibility for harm caused by AI systems, particularly in high-risk applications; mandating transparency and explainability in AI decisions that affect individuals; and reinforcing data protection laws to prevent the misuse or exploitation of personal information.
He also called for compulsory risk assessments for high-impact AI technologies prior to deployment and the establishment of independent public oversight bodies to monitor compliance, conduct audits, and manage public grievances.
Alongside regulatory measures, Lee proposed a Code of Ethics and Integrity for AI, which would guide the design and use of AI technologies in line with core values such as human dignity, fairness, non-discrimination, honesty, environmental responsibility, and inclusivity.
“To humanise AI, ethical considerations, transparency and empathy must be embedded into its design and implementation,” he said.
Lee underscored the urgency of ensuring AI technologies are used to support, rather than undermine, humanity.
“This means avoiding bias in decision-making systems, ensuring that AI enhances human potential rather than replacing it, and making its benefits accessible to all, not just a select few,” he added. – June 1, 2025
