As AI enters classrooms, Anwar warns against losing what makes us human

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said artificial intelligence must be balanced with human values and moral character as schools embrace digital technology. — Bernama pic

First Published: Wednesday, 28 Oct 2026 8:40 AM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 — Artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology are vital for the future of education; however, their use must be balanced with the cultivation of moral, human values, and character among students, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

In a video shared on his Facebook page, the prime minister noted that while AI possesses capabilities in terms of knowledge and intelligence, it lacks the values, character, and humanity that must be nurtured within and embodied by human beings.

“We are moving in that direction (the use of technology), but there is a caveat, we must ‘reach for the skies while remaining rooted to the earth.’ Why? Because while AI is important, it also presents certain issues.

“It (AI) possesses knowledge, but it lacks humanity and moral depth. It has no values, no character, and no humanity. It is merely intelligence,” he said.

Anwar made these remarks in response to a student’s question regarding the possibility of all schools in the country adopting technologies such as tablets, laptops, and AI in the future.

Earlier yesterday, at the Parliament building, he met and interacted with students from schools in Pasir Gudang and Pontian, Johor.

The prime minister said the nation is indeed moving toward the integration of technology in education; however, this progress must be accompanied by an awareness of technology’s limitations and the importance of preserving human values.

Anwar emphasised that intelligence alone is insufficient if not coupled with values and character, adding that education must continue to focus on the development of a well-rounded individual.

“Is technology important? Yes, it is. A lack of intelligence is dangerous, but if we focus solely on intelligence, human values are lost.

“Therefore, as we move in that direction (the use of technology), we must remain mindful of how we can continue to stay truly human,” he said.

The prime minister also emphasised the importance of the concept of akal budi (intellect and moral character) within the Malay culture, which links the capacity for thought with ethical conduct, thereby demonstrating that an individual’s intelligence should not be measured solely by their knowledge.

In this regard, he encouraged students to cultivate the habit of cherishing their parents and expressing affection in their daily lives.

Anwar noted that simple gestures such as hugging and kissing one’s parents, or showing them appreciation help foster values of love and humanity. These values must be preserved, even as society continues to advance technologically.

“Could we perhaps start a new culture? Hugging and kissing one’s parents? I once saw someone return home and kiss his father; the father was puzzled, wondering, ‘What does he want from me? ‘simply because such a practice had never existed before. Show appreciation, express affection. There is absolutely no harm in it,” he said. — Bernama