A Study on the Legal Challenges and Policy Implications of Copyright Ownership in Artificial Intelligence-Generated Works in Malaysia

Chang, Joy Ern Ying (2026) A Study on the Legal Challenges and Policy Implications of Copyright Ownership in Artificial Intelligence-Generated Works in Malaysia. Final Year Project (Bachelor), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology.

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Abstract

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has enabled machines to autonomously generate creative works, challenging traditional copyright principles rooted in human authorship. In Malaysia, the Copyright Act 1987 defines authorship strictly in human terms, creating legal ambiguity over the ownership and protection of AI-generated content. This uncertainty raises significant issues for creators, businesses, and policymakers, potentially hindering innovation and investment in the digital economy. While jurisdictions such as the United Kingdom attribute ownership of computer-generated works to the person making the necessary arrangements, Malaysia has yet to establish a clear legal stance, leaving a gap between international developments and domestic law. This study examines the legal challenges and policy implications of copyright ownership in AI-generated works within the Malaysian context. It seeks to analyze the applicability of current copyright provisions, assess the feasibility of recognizing AI as an author or co-author, and propose policy and legislative reforms to address existing gaps. Adopting a qualitative research design, the study employs semi-structured interviews with legal scholars, practitioners, and policymakers, and applies thematic analysis to identify key issues and perspectives. The findings are expected to highlight the inadequacy of current laws in addressing AI-generated works, the risks of ownership disputes, and the need for reform to balance innovation with legal certainty. By offering recommendations for a more inclusive intellectual property framework, the research contributes to Malaysia’s policy development, supports innovation, and aligns with international trends in digital governance.