Content Forum backs AI governance suggestion
Source: The Star
PETALING JAYA: The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) fully backs the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission's (MCMC) suggestions for the regulatory measures needed to govern the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in content creation and distribution.
This came after MCMC member Derek John Fernandez's recent recommendations regarding the urgent need for regulatory measures to govern the use of AI in content creation and distribution.
Fernandez highlighted the critical importance of curbing the misuse of AI technologies, such as deepfakes, which can significantly threaten public peace and national security.
He emphasised the necessity for a regulatory framework that mandates clear disclosure when images or videos are generated by AI, thereby preventing the spread of misinformation and protecting individuals from becoming victims of online fraud.
Content Forum CEO Mediha Mahmood said the regulatory body aligns with these recommendations, recognising that they are in perfect harmony with its mission to advocate the self-regulation of content within Malaysia's digital space, as outlined in the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Content Code 2022 (Code).
This Code highlights the importance of transparency, already requiring disclosures when influencers are used for marketing purposes.
Extending these principles to include AI-generated content will further strengthen consumer trust and protect the community from misleading information.
Content Forum is an independent self-regulatory body registered under the MCMC as an industry forum designated by the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 to oversee and promote self-regulation of content over the electronic networked medium.
Meanwhile, Content Forum chairman Rafiq Razali emphasised the collective responsibility in ensuring the safe use of AI in content creation, stating: "AI has immense potential to revolutionise the content industry, driving unprecedented levels of creativity and efficiency.
"Yet, this potential must be managed with careful consideration. It is imperative that the lawmakers, AI service providers, regulators and content creators work collaboratively to allocate sufficient resources and ensure these technologies are used responsibly.
"Prioritising user safety and maintaining the integrity of digital content are crucial to fostering a trustworthy content environment," he said.
Mediha said recent incidents where deepfake videos featuring well-known public figures went viral had caused widespread confusion within the community.
Furthermore, there are cases where AI-generated content has been used to scam the unsuspecting public with highly believable content. These incidents are a stark reminder of how easily AI can be misused to manipulate information and deceive the public, she noted.
By implementing regulations like mandating the disclosure of AI-generated content, she said it is possible to mitigate these risks and safeguard the community from digital deception.
Mediha added: "When the Internet was first introduced, we could not anticipate the full range of challenges that would arise, from cyberbullying to misinformation.
"These issues continue to evolve and Malaysia remains committed to addressing them through effective legislation and regulation.
"As we stand on the brink of widespread AI adoption, we must learn from past experiences."
Mediha emphasised that pre-empting potential harms through swift and effective regulation is not just prudent, but is also essential.
"The Content Forum is confident that by taking proactive measures, we can fully harness the transformative benefits of AI, while maintaining a safe and secure digital landscape.
"It encourages all stakeholders within the digital content ecosystem to work together in developing robust regulatory frameworks that protect user interests and promote innovation," Mediha noted.
As an industry self-regulatory body, the Content Forum comprises key members of the communications and multimedia content industry, including broadcasters, advertisers, content creators, Internet access service providers and civic groups.
This dynamic and robust representation of industry practitioners ensures that content standards continue to be developed with the objective of establishing a level playing field in the industry.
It is also responsible for the implementation and enforcement of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Content Code (Content Code). The Content Code was prepared by the Content Forum and first registered with MCMC on Sept 1, 2004, with a revamp in 2022.
The Content Code is the principal source for industry self-regulation as it contains governing standards and best practices for content dissemination within the communications and multimedia industry in Malaysia.
The main objective of the Content Code is to outline procedures of self-regulation that provides the platform for creativity, innovation and healthy growth of a fast-evolving industry.