KUCHING: A new generation of technology designed to complement artificial intelligence (AI) is currently under development and could emerge within the next five to ten years, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said scientists are studying a second-generation AI-related technology, but details remain confidential for now.
“Following AI, a new technology is currently being studied. I’m unable to disclose it yet, but it is designed to complement AI.
“This upcoming technology will serve as a balancing force to existing technologies. The research is in progress and is based on algorithmic principles,” he said in his speech during the opening ceremony of Sarawak Media Conference (SMEC) 2025, themed ‘Artificial Intelligence: Shaping the Future of Media and Journalism’ held at a hotel here today.
Later at a press conference, Abang Johari said the upcoming technology will also be capable of verifying the authenticity of AI-generated content and mitigating the risks of digital fraud.
He explained that today’s AI has evolved from earlier technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), which were later enhanced with machine processing and “thinking” capabilities.
“In the past, AI did not exist. What we had were VR and AR. But now, these technologies have been combined with machine cognition, and that’s how we got AI as we know it today.
“That’s why we need new technologies to validate whether AI-generated content is authentic. If not, AI can become an enabler of sophisticated digital deception,” he said.
On a related note, Abang Johari said AI also holds the potential to revolutionise healthcare delivery in rural areas through telemedicine.
He said with telemedicine, AI could take over basic roles typically performed by nurses.
With telemedicine, AI can take on the role of a nurse.
“It could come in a robotic form, providing precision care and instructing robots to perform nurse-like functions… and such technologies already exist,” he said.
