'Kill switch' for AI? MPs raise red flags over privacy and surveillance

PARLIAMENT | Lawmakers have raised concerns about the ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, particularly amid concerns regarding privacy rights.

Doris Sophia Brodi (GPS-Sri Aman) asked Gobind Singh Deo (Harapan-Damansara) to explain whether the government has designed a control mechanism or “kill switch” if cybersecurity AI fails or “acts beyond control”.

In response, the digital minister said the ministry is envisioning establishing new “structures” that will allow the government to focus on what risks AI advancements may pose, following which, other measures will be undertaken to “protect” the public.

“What is important is for us to build institutions that are positioned to determine where the technology is heading, and what steps can be taken to ensure we are safe when that technology is adopted in our country,” the minister said in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Gobind (above) referenced the Digital Trust and Data Security Strategy 2026-2030 as well as the National AI Office as proof of the government’s efforts thus far, noting that existing laws ensure that when “violations” are committed, enforcement action can be taken.

However, PAS MP Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PN-Pasir Mas) raised similar concerns, questioning whether Putrajaya has decided to establish an independent review body or committee to monitor technologies such as facial recognition and real-time surveillance.

Pointing out that such digital programs have the potential to infringe upon the public’s privacy rights, Fadhli asserted that other nations, including Singapore, Canada and the United Kingdom, have already moved to establish such independent committees.

Data commission

Gobind reiterated that the ministry is considering establishing a data commission to safeguard individuals’ privacy rights.

He added that while the ministry is hoping to guarantee that all levels of society are able to benefit from such technology, certain “mechanisms” are needed to address potential risks.

“There must be mechanisms and bodies that can oversee particular aspects so that when a problem arises, action can be taken.

“This can be viewed (by) a committee or agencies such as the National AI Office. There is the Personal Data Protection Department (which) has powers to take enforcement action and carry out implementations,” said the Damansara lawmaker.

The proposed data commission is understood to be aimed at functioning as an independent oversight body tasked with safeguarding and ensuring robust data governance while promoting ethical AI practices.

Reporting by Qistina Nadia Dzulqarnain, Hariz Mohd, Haspaizi Zain

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