Indonesia is taking significant steps to enhance its national AI capabilities, as Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong highlighted the challenges the country faces in developing AI data centers due to US export restrictions on AI chips. Despite these challenges, Malaysia is classified as a Tier 2 country along with other ASEAN nations, limiting access to advanced AI technology exports. However, this restriction is not expected to impact other data center operations not reliant on AI chips or advanced AI technology, such as transaction services, e-commerce, and data storage.

In a separate development, a groundbreaking forum hosted by the ASEAN Foundation, supported by Google.org, recently took place in Jakarta. The 1st Regional Policy Convening of AI Ready ASEAN brought together key stakeholders to drive AI literacy and innovation across the region. Policymakers, AI practitioners, and local implementing partners discussed collaborative approaches for regulatory frameworks to accelerate responsible AI adoption, bridge AI literacy gaps, and unlock opportunities in Southeast Asia. The event marked a significant milestone in the implementation of the AI Ready ASEAN initiative, which aims to enhance AI literacy in ASEAN member states.

The conference featured panel discussions on ASEAN’s AI landscape and included representatives from CyberGuardiansPH (CGPH) and Break The Fake Movement (BTFM) from the Philippines. The discussions emphasized the importance of making AI education inclusive and accessible to underserved communities. Initiatives such as the ASEAN Cybersecurity Skilling Program (ACSP) Project and the Break The Fake Movement are shaping Philippine AI initiatives through capacity-building sessions, workshops, and dialogues to equip citizens with essential AI skills for the future.

Overall, these initiatives underscore the growing importance of AI literacy and innovation in the region, with a focus on ensuring that all individuals, including young learners, educators, and parents, are well-equipped to navigate the evolving digital landscape and leverage the opportunities presented by AI technology. Through collaborations between government entities, private organizations, and civil society, ASEAN is poised to harness the potential of AI for the benefit of its citizens and drive sustainable development in the region.