Business leaders should use artificial intelligence (AI) to improve decision-making, but not rely on it to make decisions on their behalf, according to Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil.
Speaking at CTOS SME Biz Day 2026, Anuar said AI can help businesses analyse information, simplify complex data, and evaluate possible options more quickly. However, accountability and final judgement must remain with business leaders.
Human Judgement Still Matters
Anuar stressed that AI cannot be held responsible for important business considerations such as regulatory compliance, employee welfare, customer impact, corporate reputation, and long-term strategy.
While AI can accelerate analysis and improve efficiency, he said business owners must continue to make the final decisions.
He also encouraged company leaders to take an active role in AI adoption rather than leaving the responsibility entirely to technology teams or external consultants.
AI Becoming Essential for Businesses
According to Anuar, AI is becoming as important to businesses as email, making it increasingly difficult for companies to remain competitive without understanding and adopting the technology.
He shared that he personally uses large language models to organise briefing materials, identify key messages, and process information more efficiently.
However, he emphasised that these tools should complement human expertise rather than replace it.
Driving Productivity and Growth
Anuar said businesses should focus on practical outcomes when adopting AI, including higher productivity, improved efficiency, lower operating costs, and better use of resources.
He cited examples of companies using AI to analyse customer behaviour and market demand, while agricultural businesses are leveraging digital technologies to monitor crops and improve harvesting decisions.
“If you are not leveraging AI, you risk being left behind because somebody else is doing it better and faster,” he said.
Supporting Malaysia’s Digital Future
As MDEC marks its 30th anniversary this year, the agency remains focused on helping businesses translate digital and AI strategies into measurable business outcomes.
The effort supports Malaysia’s broader AI Nation 2030 ambitions, with a focus on increasing competitiveness, innovation, and productivity across industries.
For more information on MDEC initiatives, visit www.mdec.com.my.
