KUCHING: Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) regarding content creation necessitate a review of the legal framework to clarify ownership rights and royalties when creative works are no longer produced entirely by humans.

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information, and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol said that these technological developments raise new questions regarding the extent of legal protection applicable to works created with the aid of AI.

According to him, the matter requires detailed examination to determine ownership and copyright protection for AI-involved works, including those created only partially using the technology.

“There may be legal amendments to address works that are no longer created entirely by humans but instead involve artificial intelligence to some extent.

“Therefore, this matter needs to be legally defined so that all parties can benefit from copyright protection for their creations,” he said.

He said this while officiating the Sarawak Media Workshop 2026 at the TEGAS Digital Village here on Monday.

Datuk Abdullah added that similar issues arise regarding the production of songs, dramas, productions and videos using AI, specifically concerning ownership rights and royalties if the content is reused.

He also emphasised the need for media practitioners to understand AI developments, which are expected to continue shaping the content creation landscape, while also considering regulations, guidelines and sensitivities in information dissemination.

He noted that the media’s role goes beyond delivering accurate news to the public, it also acts as a bridge between the government and the people by conveying community issues and needs to leaders for policy consideration.

Meanwhile, Datuk Abdullah stated that the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) plans to expand awareness regarding AI and the digital economy to rural areas through workshops designed to be easily understood by local communities.

He mentioned that approximately 55 to 60 per cent of areas in Sarawak are still classified as rural, with communities in these regions expressing interest in exploring opportunities within the digital economy.

“Awareness regarding AI should not be limited to media personnel, it must be extended to the general public so they can understand the technological advancements increasingly influencing their lives and workplaces.

“Collaboration between the government, the AI ​​community and various stakeholders is crucial to accelerating efforts to enhance understanding of the digital economy and its application in daily life,” he explained.

Also present were UKAS Deputy Director Mohamed Faizal Shah Ali representing UKAS Director, Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Sarawak (TEGAS) Chief Executive Officer Udin Bujang, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) Kuching Branch Deputy Director Mathew Manyin Rengga @ Mohd Mu’izzuddin Rengga and Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA) President Ronnie Teo. -UKASnews