Ethical issues for artificial intelligence utilization in Malaysian higher education.

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing higher education in Malaysia, offering advanced solutions to enhance teaching, learning, and administrative processes. However, this technological change brings significant ethical challenges that must be addressed to ensure responsible and inclusive adoption. Key concerns issues include data privacy violations, academic dishonesty facilitated by AI-generated content, algorithmic bias, and unequal access to AI tools, particularly between urban and rural institutions. This paper critically examines these ethical issues through a conceptual and thematic review of existing literature, focusing on student and educator perceptions, institutional readiness, and gaps in governance. Findings shows a lack of comprehensive ethical frameworks, insufficient AI literacy, and limited policies to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability. To address these challenges and issues, this study proposes the important development of a localized ethical framework that emphasizes inclusivity, data protection, and cultural sensitivity. By embedding these principles into national and institutional policies, Malaysian higher education can harness AI’s transformative potential while safeguarding core academic values of integrity, equity, and trust.