AI helps humans, not takes over roles and controls humans.

SIBU, Sept. 26: Artificial intelligence (AI) should be used to help humans become smarter, more creative and thinker, rather than making people overly dependent on technology.

Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee said that people should realize that AI is a man-made technology and not something that should take over the role of humans.

He says that the rapid development of AI these days is making humans increasingly dependent on it to get information and perform various tasks.

"AI makes us smarter. Don't forget, we are humans, not AI. Sometimes AI can make things up and not necessarily everything that AI says is 100 percent true", he said as he inaugurated the TechUnity Exhibition & Forum 2026 and Sibu Esports Championship 2026 here today.

Additionally, an over-reliance on AI can cause humans to simply receive information and instructions from the technology without making any personal judgments.

He said that this should be avoided because humans are the creators of AI and not humans who should be under AI control.

"We don't want to rely too much on AI so that humans become like robots who just take orders, receive information and do what the AI tells them to do.

He also said that AI is no longer just a representation of the technology of the future or something that only exists in science fiction movies, but it's already present in people's daily lives.

In this regard, he said, young people should be given space and exposure to learn technology and use it with confidence, creativity and clear purpose.

Meanwhile, TechUnity Exhibition & Forum 2026 was held for two days on September 26 and 27 with the participation of 30 exhibitors, four forum sessions, an AI competition, business networking activities as well as various other programs.

Michael said the theme of TechUnity Exhibition & Forum 2026, "Living Smarter with AI: Towards a Sustainable Digital Future", was very much in line with current technological developments.

He also sees TechUnity as more than just an exhibition because it provides a space for the community to meet face-to-face, exchange ideas, build relationships and explore new opportunities.

He said that even though today's society lives in a world where people are connected through the internet, social media and various applications, face-to-face communication is still important.

He also encouraged people to take advantage of the event to add knowledge, build new relationships and explore ideas and opportunities to face a world increasingly driven by technology and digital so as not to fall behind in competition. -TVS