In a move that could redefine ethical AI globally, Zetrix AI Berhad, the developer of the Shariah-aligned large language model NurAI, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Malaysian government to establish a global framework for Shariah-compliant AI governance and certification. The ceremony was witnessed by Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, signaling Malaysia’s ambitions at the intersection of AI and Islamic ethics.
Shariah Compliance Meets AI Innovation
NurAI is already pioneering as a faith-aligned AI platform, and this collaboration with JAKIM—Malaysia’s Department of Islamic Development, internationally recognized for halal certification—aims to formalize its ethical and regulatory oversight. JAKIM’s leadership ensures that NurAI aligns with Islamic principles while setting international benchmarks for faith-based AI.
Malaysia has consistently led the Global Islamic Economy Indicator, excelling not just in halal certification but also in finance, education, and digital services. Integrating emerging technologies like AI and blockchain into Shariah compliance underscores the country’s strategy to extend its leadership into the digital economy.
Three Pillars of Collaboration
The LOI outlines three core areas of partnership:
- Shariah Certification and Governance – Developing ethical frameworks, certification standards, and guidelines for AI systems based on Islamic principles.
- Global Advocacy and Promotion – Positioning Malaysia as the hub for Islamic AI and championing the projected USD 5.74 trillion Islamic digital economy by 2030.
- JAKIM’s Official NurAI Channel – Establishing a trusted platform for verified Shariah guidance, halal certification, and Islamic legal rulings, combating misinformation through AI.
Setting Global Benchmarks
By combining advanced AI with faith-based governance, Malaysia positions itself as a leader in ethical AI for over 2 billion Muslims worldwide. NurAI is designed to support multiple languages—Bahasa Melayu, English, Indonesian, and Arabic—while adhering to national data sovereignty and cybersecurity policies. This ensures the platform remains secure, locally governed, and cost-effective, reducing reliance on foreign AI systems.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted that national policies must incorporate emerging technologies like AI while remaining grounded in Islamic values—a principle that underpins NurAI’s development.
As faith-based and ethical AI gains attention globally, Malaysia’s initiative demonstrates how digital innovation can be harmonized with religious values, reinforcing the country’s halal tech leadership and providing a model for other nations aiming to blend AI with cultural and ethical frameworks.
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