2025-06-30: The Global Race for 2nm Chip Leadership Intensifies

Malaysia: Surge in AI-Driven Fraud Spurs New Legislation and Public Awareness Initiatives

Good Morning,

Below are some of the most important developments in the artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and cloud computing sectors in Asia today.

▪️ Malaysia: Surge in AI-Driven Fraud Spurs New Legislation and Public Awareness Initiatives
The growing misuse of artificial intelligence technology has spurred the development of targeted legislation and public education efforts.

▪️ Taiwan: Taiwan Stock Surge Driven by AI Momentum, Semiconductor Gains, and Foreign Inflows
Taiwan’s stock market performance in late June and early Q3 reflected a strong rebound driven by foreign capital inflows, semiconductor strength, and rising AI-related demand.

▪️ Taiwan: The Global Race for 2nm Chip Leadership Intensifies Amid AI Surge and Geopolitical Shifts
Leading suppliers in the semiconductor industry compete fiercely to achieve 2 nm chip production in response to surging demand for AI and high-performance computing.

For more information on these developments, please see the full report below.

Thanks for reading,

Rodney J Johnson

Today's Developments

Widely Reported On Issues of Importance

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Surge in AI-Driven Fraud Spurs New Legislation and Public Awareness Initiatives

The growing misuse of artificial intelligence technology has spurred the development of targeted legislation and public education efforts.

From 2020 to 2024, global losses from AI-related crimes have reached about RM5 billion, driven by sophisticated fraud schemes that use AI.
Criminals target individuals and organizations with deepfake videos and voice cloning to deceive victims and extract funds.

Deputy Minister of Digital Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong has pressed for an AI law to be enacted by 2025, complete with clear enforcement mechanisms and penalties for offenders.
In parallel, Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo has requested a comprehensive report on proposed AI regulations and a framework for a dedicated AI law by the end of June 2025.

The National Cyber Security Agency is reviewing the draft bill and expects it to gain parliamentary support similar to that of the Personal Data Protection Act 2010.
The proposed legislation will reinforce existing controls over AI technology, define unlawful applications, and set out punitive measures for individuals and entities found misusing AI.

Ugak pointed to recent cases in which manipulated videos showed former Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani and Johor Police Chief Datuk M.
Kumar receiving aid—both officials publicly denied any involvement, illustrating the reputational and social risks of AI-generated misinformation. He also recounted a personal near-scam in which fraudsters used AI tools to impersonate a friend’s identity.

To reduce public vulnerability, the Ministry of Digital has expanded its Malaysia Digital Tour (JMD), a nationwide awareness program targeting rural communities and retirees.
Ugak visited remote areas in Sabah, Sarawak, and Penang to lead outreach sessions teaching villagers about AI-driven scam tactics, digital hygiene practices, and how to report fraudulent activities.

References for this Development

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AI disalah guna sebar ideologi militan

AI misused to spread militant ideology

Sinar Harian | Local Language | News

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Undang-undang AI perlu disegerakan - Timbalan Menteri Digital

AI Legislation Needs to be Expedited - Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs

Sinar Harian | Local Language | News

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Undang-undang AI dijangka dibentang tahun ini

AI law expected to be tabled this year

Kosmo | Local Language | News

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