Malaysian temple creates first talking goddess to interact with worshippers
A Taoist temple in Malaysia has introduced what it says is the world's first "AI Mazu statue", a digital equivalent of the highly revered Chinese sea goddess that can converse with worshippers and respond to their questions, the South China Morning Post reported.The southern Malaysian state of Johor's Tianhou Temple recently released video footage of believers interacting with the AI, or artificial intelligence, Mazu projected on a screen. The goddess is shown as an attractive woman in traditional Chinese attire.advertisementBelievers are invited to pray for blessings from the AI Mazu, seek interpretations of the fortune sticks they pull out, and ask personal questions. The temple proudly stated that she was 'the first AI Mazu in the world'.
DEVELOPED BY A MALAYSIAN TECHNOLOGY FIRMThe digital goddess powered by AI was created by Malaysian technology company Aimazin, which also provides individuals with AI cloning services.A demonstration video had the founder of the company, Shin Kong, ask AI Mazu, "Can I have luck for an unexpected fortune, which is referred to as pian Cai Yun in Mandarin?In a soothing and gentle tone, Mazu responded, "You would be luckier in the form of unforeseen wealth if you remained at home."In a second example, a pilgrim who had been having trouble sleeping was advised by the AI Mazu, who suggested the straightforward solution of drinking warm water before sleeping.advertisementThis combination of ancient wisdom and technology has struck a chord with numerous worshippers, who have spoken highly of the AI Mazu as being helpful and accessible.Following the temple's social media release of the footage, many users left comments adorned with praying hands emojis, requesting blessings from the digital deity.HONOURING A TIMELESS TRADITIONThe launch of the AI Mazu coincides with the 1,065th birthday celebration of the sea goddess, which fell on April 20 this year.As reported by SCMP, Mazu was born in 960 on Meizhou Island in Fujian province, southeastern China, as an ordinary man named Lin Mo. Legend has it that Lin drowned while trying to save shipwreck survivors, went up to heaven, and was revered as a strong protector of sailors.Now, Mazu is still revered by the Chinese in every corner of the world, especially in Southeast Asia, such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.
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