
Expert: Human leadership stands unmatched in AI era
KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 9): As artificial intelligence (AI) disrupts industries and redefines decision-making processes, experts argue that the core qualities of human leadership – determination, empathy and discipline – will remain irreplaceable.
International, Industrial & Institutional Partnership deputy dean Assoc Prof Ts Dr Bazilah A Talip highlighted that while AI enhances efficiency and provides valuable data-driven insights, she remarked ‘it cannot replicate human foresight, ethical judgment or the ability to inspire and motivate teams’.
“AI is a tool, not a replacement. True leadership requires vision and resilience to navigate through uncertainties that AI alone cannot predict,” said the Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL) researcher at a forum entitled ‘Strategic Leadership & Visionary Leaders of the Future in the Era of Artificial Leadersip’, conducted recently.
According to Bazilah, the Higher Education Leadership Academy (AKEPT), under the Ministry of Higher Education, has been at the forefront of such initiatives which aim to integrate AI into leadership practices without losing sight of the human element.
She added that AKEPT collaborates with industry and academic experts to equip them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in increasingly complex environment through initiatives such as forums and workshops, meant to explore the intersection of AI and leadership.
“AI cannot replace a leader’s ability to build trust, motivate teams or navigate ambiguity, instead it should offer support by helping leaders make informed decisions faster and more accurately,” said Bazilah.
She added that to prepare for the future, AKEPT and UniKL have intensified efforts to train leaders with both technical expertise and emotional intelligence.
By fostering collaboration between academia and industry, both organisations aim to produce leaders ready to embrace AI while safeguarding core leadership principles.
“By emphasising human values in tandem with technological advancement, we can build a future where innovation thrives without losing sight of what makes us human.”
Furthermore, Bazilah pointed out that qualities such as determination, consistency and discipline are indispensable for long-term success.
“AI may assist with operational tasks but it’s the leader’s human qualities that set the vision and drive results.”
-Agency