In a groundbreaking move, a Taoist temple in Malaysia has unveiled what it claims to be the world’s first interactive “AI Mazu statue,” sparking new conversations about the role of technology in spirituality.
The Tianhou Temple, located in Johor in southern Malaysia, shared videos of worshippers interacting with the digital deity, displayed on a screen. The AI version of Mazu—the revered Chinese sea goddess—is portrayed as a woman in traditional Chinese attire.
AI-powered statue offers blessings and advice
The AI Mazu statue is designed to engage directly with worshippers by offering blessings and answering their questions. Visitors to the temple can request blessings, seek interpretations of fortune sticks drawn during ceremonies, or even pose personal questions to the virtual goddess.
The temple proudly declared this innovation as “the first AI Mazu in the world.” The digital deity was developed by Malaysian technology firm Aimazin, a company that also offers AI-based cloning services.
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Demonstrations show AI Mazu responding to devotees
In demonstration videos, Aimazin founder Shin Kong showcased the AI Mazu’s ability to offer personalized guidance. In one instance, Kong asked the digital goddess about prospects for unexpected fortune.
The AI Mazu responded, “You would have better luck in terms of an unexpected fortune if you stay at home.”
In another interaction, an influencer inquired about solutions for her insomnia. The AI Mazu advised warmly, “Drink some warm water before going to sleep.”
Launch coincides with celebration of Mazu’s birthday
The unveiling of the AI Mazu statue was timed to coincide with the sea goddess’s 1,065th birthday on April 20.
According to tradition, Mazu was born in 960 on Meizhou Island in China’s Fujian Province. Known originally as Lin Mo, she is venerated as a protector of sailors and seafarers. Mazu is said to have ascended to heaven after perishing while attempting to save shipwreck victims.
Today, Mazu commands widespread reverence among Chinese communities around the world, particularly across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.