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MEETING WITH HIS EMINENCE CARDINAL JOSÉ TOLENTINO DE MENDONÇA, PREFECT OF THE DICASTERY FOR CULTURE AND EDUCATION

On 18 March 2025,
TYT Ambassador Hendy Assan met with His Eminence Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, at the Vatican. The meeting explored potential collaborations between Malaysia and the Holy See, focusing on culture, education, and the ethical development of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Among matters discussed include possible joint initiatives, including exhibitions, forums, and academic exchanges to promote Malaysia’s multicultural heritage and interfaith harmony. They also explored partnerships with Vatican museums, libraries, and educational institutions to strengthen research and people-to-people connections.
Recognizing the Vatican’s leadership in AI ethics, particularly through the Rome Call for AI Ethics and the recent Antiqua et Nova publication, TYT Ambassador shared Malaysia’s interest in working together to ensure AI development remains human-centric and aligned with moral values. He proposed collaboration between Malaysia’s National AI Office (NAIO) and the Dicastery, including academic dialogues, research, and workshops on responsible AI for education and cultural enrichment.
Both TYT Ambassador and His Eminence agreed to continue dialogue and follow up on concrete initiatives. TYT Ambassador Hendy reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to deepening ties with the Holy See, paving the way for meaningful collaboration in culture, education, and the ethical governance of AI.