Malaysia’s chief justice compares AI to a chainsaw, useful for legal work but dangerous without human judgment and empathy in justice system.
KUALA LUMPUR: Artificial Intelligence resembles a chainsaw by being useful in proper hands yet extremely dangerous when misused according to Chief Justice Datuk Seri Wan Ahmad Farid Wan Salleh.
The nation’s top judge confirmed AI is no longer a distant possibility but is already deployed in legal research and contract analysis.
AI currently assists in predictive analytics and even supports existing judicial decision-making processes.
Justice Wan Ahmad Farid emphasised that while AI might augment judicial work it cannot replace the essential role of lawyers or judges.
“The law is not merely a compilation of rules and precedents to be processed algorithmically but it is a human endeavour.”
“It requires judgment and not just analysis.”
He explained that legal practice demands empathy context and understanding of life experiences that bring parties before courts.
Justice requires wisdom forged through experience reflection and an unwavering commitment to justice according to his keynote at Malaysia Legal Forum 2025.
The Malaysia Legal Forum 2025 represents its third edition as a premier platform uniting judiciary members legal practitioners and corporate legal leaders.
This forum enables perspective exchanges on evolving legal challenges shaping Malaysian and regional landscapes.
Thomson Reuters organised the event with support from the Legal and Business Academy of Malaysia and the AIAC as strategic partner.
Justice Wan Ahmad Farid noted that law evolves with society responds to new challenges and adapts to technological advancement.
“As judges lawyers and legal practitioners we are the guardians of this evolution.”
“We interpret the law yes but we also shape it.”
He stressed their duty extends beyond legislation’s letter to its spirit ensuring justice is both done and seen to be done.
Justice must remain accessible fair and relevant to all Malaysians according to the Chief Justice.
“To all of you I say this embrace change but do not lose sight of our core values.”
“Pursue efficiency but not at the expense of justice.”
He concluded by urging legal professionals to welcome technology without allowing it to diminish humanity’s central role in legal work. – Bernama
