MMU Academic Shares Insights at ASEAN AI Malaysia Summit 2025

Dr. Jack Ng Kok Wah from the Faculty of Management (FOM), was invited as one of the speakers for a session titled “AI & Mental Health: Promises and Pitfalls of Human-Machine Support” at the ASEAN AI Malaysia Summit 2025 on 13 August 2025.

The event, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, saw Dr. Jack share his perspectives on how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we understand and support mental health. His presentation highlighted the potential of AI in detecting early signs of mental distress and creating personalised care plans tailored to individual needs. He also noted how collaboration among digital platforms, healthcare providers, and policymakers can make mental health support more accessible, timely, and effective.

Dr. Jack further discussed the “human side” of technology, addressing cultural sensitivities, ethical challenges, and systemic barriers in applying AI to such a personal and emotional area. He emphasised that while AI can process information faster than the human brain, qualities like empathy, trust, and cultural understanding remain uniquely human. The session concluded with a reminder that the future of mental health support is not about replacing people with machines, but about combining their strengths to build a more compassionate and effective system of care.