Artificial Intelligence and Malaysian Literature: A Comparative Study of Ai and Human Translation

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming literary translation, offering new opportunities for the global dissemination of Malaysian literature. As digitalisation reshapes how literary works are produced, archived, and accessed, AI-driven translation technologies are crucial in making Malaysia’s multilingual heritage more accessible. This study examines AI translation in the context of Malay-language literary texts, assessing its effectiveness in capturing linguistic accuracy, stylistic nuances, and cultural depth. Focusing on neural machine translation (NMT) systems and large language models (LLMs), the research compares AI-generated translations with those of human translators of Malaysian poetry. Special attention is given to fluency, contextual accuracy, and cultural sensitivity, highlighting AI’s abilities in processing large volumes of text while exposing its challenges with metaphorical language, historical context, and regional dialects. Additionally, it considers the role of digital platforms, archives, and AI-powered tools in ensuring the longevity of Malaysian literary works in an increasingly digital world. This research accentuates the opportunities and challenges of adapting Malaysia’s literary heritage to evolving technology by situating AI translation within the broader digitalisation process. The findings contribute to the discussions on AI, translation studies, and literary preservation, reaffirming the importance of human expertise in maintaining the authenticity and cultural significance of Malaysian literature.