By Amanda L
KUCHING, Sept 24: Civil servants must guard against over-relying on artificial intelligence (AI), as the technology lacks human wisdom and poses risks of data overload and misuse if adopted uncritically.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Sarawak Land and Survey Innovation and Integrity Day (HIITS) 2026 on Wednesday (Sept 23), Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg stressed that while AI is a valuable aid for finding solutions, it can never replace human judgment.
“Continue using technology. Now we have AI, but don’t rely on AI 100 per cent because AI does not have wisdom,” he said.
Addressing the mechanics behind automated tools, the Premier explained that AI outputs are strictly governed by programming, large language models, algorithms and the quality of user prompts.
Consequently, civil servants must scrutinise AI-generated data for accuracy and relevance rather than taking machine outputs at face value.
Beyond analytical diligence, Abang Johari emphasised that ethical integrity remains paramount in an increasingly digital administration.
“Without strong moral boundaries, powerful technologies risk being weaponised or misused,” he warned.
“That is why data integrity, cybersecurity, audit trails, managing conflicts of interest, and maintaining accountability in technological adoption, including AI, are critical,” he asserted.
He added that in a modern, data-driven civil service, integrity extends beyond traditional boundaries such as resisting bribery or curbing power abuse; it now encompasses how information and digital tools are ethically managed. — DayakDaily
