PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has warned that the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) risks widening the divide between wealthy and developing countries, as geopolitical tensions and unequal access to technology reshape the global digital economy.
Speaking at the opening of the fifth Global Digital Trade Expo (GDTE) in Hangchou, China , Anwar said technological modernisation could not come at the expense of addressing growing socioeconomic inequality.
“The reality is that inequality and unfair trade practices arising from disparities in the digital divide and access to AI are real and urgent problems,” he said.
Anwar said the global trading system must remain open while countries retained the ability to safeguard their national interests.
He said the mainstreaming of AI and digital trade was taking place amid geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty and growing efforts to treat technology as an instrument of national security, adding, technological innovation and progress must ultimately deliver tangible benefits to humanity, citing Chinese President Xi Jinping’s position on shared prosperity.
“Without taking sides in the competition among the major powers, smaller countries must have the moral steadfastness, courage and determination to raise a rational voice — defending what is right, fair, equitable and ethical,” he said.
Anwar said Malaysia would continue to mainstream AI across manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, logistics and education, but stressed that its development must remain anchored in human values.
“However, our ultimate goal is very clear: all this progress must be anchored in human values, with ethics and governance remaining the main pillars,” he said.
Anwar said technological progress would have little meaning if its benefits were concentrated among a small number of countries, corporations or elites.
He said a strong and sustainable digital economy should allow all countries to participate, enable businesses to compete fairly and ensure that people broadly shared in economic prosperity.
Separately, Anwar held a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the West Lake State Guest House, where he highlighted the trust underpinning Malaysia-China relations.
“Our relationship goes beyond traditional diplomatic ties. It is built on trust and confidence, and we need partners who value this friendship,” Anwar said, adding, Malaysia valued China’s role in technological development and cooperation with countries in the Global South.
Li said closer coordination between China and Malaysia could contribute to regional development and stability, while referring to Xi’s earlier visit to Malaysia and the two countries’ “New Golden 50 Years” of bilateral relations.
The 50-minute meeting took place on the final day of Anwar’s three-day working visit to China. He was accompanied by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Transport Minister Anthony Loke and Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
The two countries are also seeking to expand cooperation in science and technology, digital trade and skills development.- September 24, 2026
