Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) said Tuesday that artificial intelligence is advancing at the speed of light, illuminating every corner of society and ushering in a new wave of civilization. She expressed hope that AI will help balance Taiwan’s development by narrowing the urban-rural divide and improving quality of life.

At the Taiwan AI Academy Annual Conference, Hsiao acknowledged that many young people feel uncertain about AI. But to her, AI represents an endless journey of learning. She said she feels energized by its potential to provide more opportunities and tools to better understand society and complete daily tasks.

Hsiao emphasized that AI will be a key economic driver for Taiwan in the decades ahead. Taiwan’s role as the world’s semiconductor hub, she said, rests on the strength of its talent and resilience. She pointed to engineers who have repeatedly impressed the world by quickly resolving crises, such as those triggered by earthquakes, and restoring operations without delay.

Still, she cautioned that AI also brings risks, from labor market disruption to privacy, disinformation, and algorithmic bias. If ignored, she said, technology could become a runaway horse; however, she added she does not believe this outcome is inevitable.