NUTP, academic propose age limit on generative AI use

A teachers’ union and a child development expert are proposing an age limit on the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in classrooms.

National Union of the Teaching Profession (NUTP) secretary-general Fouzi Singon said early childhood education must prioritise the development of fundamental literacy, numeracy, communication, creativity, problem-solving and social skills.

Fouzi said when pupils do not have a strong understanding of basic concepts at the start, it would become increasingly difficult to address learning gaps when they reached secondary school.

“Generative AI should not become a shortcut that replaces these fundamental learning processes,” Fouzi told FMT.

Fouzi was commenting on New York City’s decision to temporarily bar elementary and middle school students from using generative AI in classrooms and whether Malaysia should follow suit.

New York City’s one-year moratorium restricts student-facing generative AI tools through Grade 8, the equivalent of Form 2, while permitting guided use at high school level (upper secondary).

Fouzi said Malaysia should consider the New York City policy as a practical reference point and not go for a blanket ban.

He went on to say that ultimately, the question is not whether Malaysian schools should use AI, but how they can ensure that AI strengthens learning without weakening the teacher-student relationship or hindering the development of independent thinking.

Similarly, International Islamic University Malaysia’s Lihanna Borhan said children, particularly those below the age of nine, need to develop problem-solving skills on their own before using generative AI as a tool.

She also cautioned against relying on companion chatbots, pointing out that AI models are typically developed based on Western norms and may lack the cultural context required by Malaysian children.

“Companion chatbots are only as good as the input,” said Lihanna, who lectures in developmental psychology.

“So children may not receive the necessary input to become culturally competent Malaysians,” she said, stressing that digital tools should never replace face-to-face human interaction.

Subscribe to our newsletter and get news delivered to your mailbox.