AI Meets Devotion: Malaysian Temple Unveils World’s First AI Mazu Statue
A Digital Goddess Answers Prayers
In a fascinating blend of ancient faith and modern technology, Malaysia’s Tianhou Temple has launched what it claims is the world’s first AI Mazu statue. This digital version of the revered Chinese sea goddess can interact with worshippers, offering blessings, interpreting fortune sticks, and answering personal questions.
Footage released by the temple shows believers engaging with the AI Mazu, depicted as a beautiful woman in traditional Chinese attire, displayed on a screen. Temple officials proudly proclaim her as “the first AI Mazu in the world.”
Tech Meets Tradition
The AI-powered Mazu was developed by Malaysian tech company Aimazin, known for its AI cloning services. In a demonstration video, the company’s founder, Shin Kong, asked the AI Mazu for luck in unexpected fortunes. The AI Mazu, in a calm and soothing voice, advised him to stay at home for better luck. Another user, an influencer, sought guidance for her sleeplessness, to which the AI Mazu, addressing her as “my child”, warmly recommended drinking warm water before bed.
The temple’s social media release of the footage sparked a wave of comments from users expressing their desire for blessings from the digital deity, adorned with praying hands emojis.
Celebrating a Timeless Goddess
The launch of the AI Mazu coincides with the 1,065th birthday celebration of the sea goddess, observed annually on April 20th. According to South China Morning Post, Mazu was born in 960 on Meizhou Island in Putian, China, as a mortal named Lin Mo. Legend has it that she ascended to heaven after rescuing shipwreck victims and became a powerful guardian of seafarers. Today, Mazu is widely worshipped by Chinese communities globally, especially in Southeast Asia.
