PETALING JAYA: A governance framework must be drawn up for artificial intelligence (AI) that embeds ethical principles in every stage of development and deployment, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.

The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said that with AI rapidly shaping many facets of life, the world needs to ensure that this powerful technology is harnessed by a human-centric approach.

"To humanise AI is to embed ethical considerations, transparency and empathy into the heart of its design.

"We must remember that AI is not just a tool, as it reflects the values of those who create it.

"Therefore, its development should prioritise fairness, accountability and inclusivity," he said in a statement on Tuesday (June 10).

Lee said AI holds the potential to solve some of humanity's most pressing challenges, from healthcare to the environment, but it must always serve the greater good.

Lee said governments, industries and communities must work together to create this governance framework that fosters innovation while protecting privacy and rights.

"There must be checks and balances to ensure that AI serves humanity without compromising safety, security, or fundamental rights," he added.

He suggested AI accountability laws, transparency, data protection and privacy, risk assessment and certification, and public oversight bodies to be included in this framework.

"Technology alone cannot determine what is right or just," he said.