AI Can Be Useful But Must Be Controlled, Foreign Minister Sugiono Emphasizes Multilateral Governance

JAKARTA - Foreign Minister Sugiono reminded that artificial intelligence (AI) can be useful but must still be controlled, emphasizing the need for multilateral governance.

Speaking at the Open Debate of the UN Security Council with the theme AI in Military and Security Domain under the Presidency of the Republic of Korea at the United Nations Headquarters, New York, Foreign Minister Sugiono stressed that AI must be managed responsibly so that it becomes a power of peace, not a source of conflict.

Foreign Minister Sugiono specifically highlighted the use of AI in the military realm, which in addition to opening up positive opportunities, also poses a big risk.

"Indonesia believes AI can be used to save lives, including in humanitarian operations and disaster responses. However, if it is not controlled, AI can actually trigger an arms race, strengthen irresponsible non-state actors, and disrupt regional stability," said Foreign Minister Sugiono, launching a statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Friday, September 26.

Related to that, Indonesia emphasizes the urgency of inclusive multilateral governance, so that AI rules and norms reflect the interests of all countries, not only those with technological capabilities.

The role of the private sector and researchers is also highlighted as an important part to ensure AI innovations are in line with ethics and humanity.

Foreign Minister Sugiono reminded that the digital gap should not be wider.

"Indonesia calls for the importance of international cooperation to build capacity, share knowledge, and ensure equal access," he explained.

Closing his statement, Foreign Minister Sugiono straightforwardly emphasized that artificial intelligence must always be a tool that helps humans, not controls humans.