Caution needed in AI adoption over data privacy and consent: Ismail Zabiullah
BTRC Chairman Major General (retd) Md Emdad Ul Bari called for connected national systems, clear rules for user data consent, and honest AI buying practices.
Bangladesh needs to exercise caution in adopting artificial intelligence, particularly over data privacy and consent, Adviser to the Prime Minister's Office Md Ismail Zabiullah said today (20 August).
He also stressed the importance of finalising the country's AI policy while highlighting the potential of AI to improve government functions, including project formulation, planning, and financial management.
The adviser made the remarks as the chief guest at a seminar titled "AI and Governance: Global Technology Architecture, National Digital Public Infrastructure and Policy Directives", organised by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) at its auditorium in Dhaka.
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Major General ASM Ridwanur Rahman, director general of BIISS, delivered the welcome address, while Major General (retd) Md Emdad Ul Bari, chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), chaired the seminar.
The keynote presentation was delivered by Dr Syed Muntasir Mamun, director general of the International Trade, Investment & Technology and ICT Wing of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
BIISS Director General Major General ASM Ridwanur Rahman said technological innovation must remain people-centred and accountable, stressing the importance of ensuring that technological advancement serves the public interest.
He also highlighted Bangladesh's active participation in global discussions on AI and the need to engage in international processes concerning AI and digital public infrastructure.
BTRC Chairman Major General (retd) Md Emdad Ul Bari stressed the need for a national interoperability framework, clear data-consent mechanisms, and transparent AI procurement standards.
An interactive discussion following the presentations focused on opportunities and challenges related to AI adoption, the role of local demand in shaping AI norms, and the evolving security landscape, including the growing role of AI in cyber operations and modern warfare.
