ASEAN HEADLINE-ASEAN / AI | Pioneering steps: ASEAN adopts initiatives to keep AI in check

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In a historic move, ASEAN Ministers on Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), alongside leading experts, have recently endorsed five pioneering AI initiatives under the ASEAN COSTI Tracks on AI (ACT on AI ) framework.

The initiatives had been proposed at a landmark event, held at the ancient site of Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia—a symbol of historical ingenuity and progress—marks the dawn of a new era for ASEAN’s leadership in technology.

The COSTI-85 meeting, chaired by Cambodia, served as a pivotal forum where ASEAN leaders and experts converged to shape the future trajectory of artificial intelligence in the region.

This significant assembly transitioned seamlessly from the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology, and Innovation (AMMSTI) to the formal adoption of the Joint AI Statement, reflecting a unified commitment to the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies across Southeast Asia.

The ACT on AI framework introduces five critical initiatives designed to enhance AI capabilities within ASEAN. These initiatives address urgent policy, legal, and regulatory gaps, while fostering collaboration between ASEAN Member States and key international partners.

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The first initiative, the Discussion Paper on the Responsible Development and Use of Generative AI in ASEAN, was developed in partnership with the United States.

This paper identifies key gaps in the implementation of Generative AI (Gen AI) within the region, offering strategic recommendations and promoting multi-stakeholder participation in Gen AI policymaking.

Supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), this initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in AI governance.

The second initiative, the ASEAN AI Workshop and Call for Papers 2024, established in collaboration with South Korea, continues to be a premier platform for ASEAN innovators to showcase their AI expertise.

This annual workshop facilitates the exchange of knowledge and ideas, significantly contributing to the regional AI ecosystem and encouraging cutting-edge research and development.

The third initiative, the Korea-ASEAN AI Development and Startup Competition 2024, aims to strengthen the digital capabilities of ASEAN startups.

By promoting innovation and fostering digital cooperation between Korea and ASEAN, this competition provides an essential platform for startups to develop and showcase innovative AI solutions, enhancing the region’s overall digital landscape.

The fourth initiative, the Korea-ASEAN AI Solutions 2024, focuses on leveraging AI to advance digital healthcare and achieve carbon neutrality.

This collaborative effort seeks to create a joint digital ecosystem, addressing critical healthcare and environmental challenges through innovative AI applications, and fostering mutual prosperity.

The fifth initiative, AI for Sustainable Development in ASEAN (AISDA), was launched at the inaugural AI Safety Summit hosted by the United Kingdom in November 2023. This initiative emphasises the dual goals of harnessing AI’s vast benefits while ensuring safety and ethical standards.

Through collaboration with the UK Official Development Assistance, this initiative promotes responsible, inclusive AI for sustainable development across Southeast Asia.

Senior Minister Chhem Kieth Rethy, who is also Chairman of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council of Cambodia, shared his insights.

Renowned expert Professor Rethy delivered an inspiring message titled “Angkor’s Enduring Wisdom: Inspiring Humanistic AI,” emphasising the timeless wisdom of Angkor as a source of inspiration for developing humanistic AI that benefits society as a whole.

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“The initiatives under the ACT on AI framework promise transformative impacts across various sectors,” he said.

He noted that in healthcare, AI advancements in diagnostics, personalised medicine, and healthcare management have the potential to revolutionise service delivery, improving patient outcomes and operational efficiencies.

In education, AI-driven personalised learning and administrative efficiencies can transform educational outcomes, making learning more accessible and effective.

Economically, AI’s role in enhancing productivity and fostering innovation is crucial for driving substantial growth across the region. AI can streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and create new economic opportunities, positioning ASEAN as a competitive player in the global market.

In governance, AI can improve public services and enhance administrative efficiencies, making government operations more transparent, efficient, and responsive to citizens’ needs.

Environmental applications of AI are essential for addressing sustainability challenges, from resource management to combating climate change, thereby supporting ASEAN’s commitment to sustainable development.

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ASEAN Member States have demonstrated a unified regional approach through collaborative projects and national strategies, supported by contributions from international development partners. These partnerships provide the necessary expertise, funding, and collaborative opportunities to advance ASEAN’s AI initiatives effectively.

The successful agreement on the ACT on AI initiatives marks a significant milestone, showcasing ASEAN’s commitment to responsible and innovative AI development. The long-term benefits promise to enhance regional cooperation, drive technological advancement, and position ASEAN as a leader in AI technology.

As the birthplace of ASEAN’s AI journey, Siem Reap’s Angkor holds symbolic and practical significance. This historic site underscores Cambodia’s leadership in guiding the region into a new era of technological innovation and collaboration, marking the beginning of a promising future for ASEAN in AI technology.

In the joint statement, the Meeting also commended the Launch of ASEAN COSTI Tracks on AI (ACT on AI) 2024-2025, five AI-related activities initiated by COSTI and supported by Dialogue Partners that would further position ASEAN as a competitive player in the global AI landscape.

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The Meeting noted that the 21st ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology and Innovation (AMMSTI-21) will be hosted by Indonesia, tentatively scheduled in June 2025.

The Kingdom had hosted the 20th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology, and Innovation (AMMSTI-20), the 85th Meeting of the ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation (COSTI-85), and related meetings in June in Siem Reap province’s Siem Reap City.

During the AMMSTI-20, the regional senior officials convened to discuss the implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

In exclusive interview with Khmer Times, Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, has said the meeting outcomes play a crucial role in advancing science, technology, and innovation within the ASEAN region, aligning with the objectives outlined in the ASEAN Action Plan on STI 2016-2025.

The joint statement issued by Ministers also serve as a cornerstone, signalling the region’s collective commitment to STI, saying it also provides a framework for regional stakeholders to recognise and support established annual priorities and initiatives, particularly those related to AI application.

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The AMMSTI-20 centered on the theme “AI Application: Navigating the Future.” This theme aims to leverage AI advancements to address regional and global challenges, emphasising inclusivity and sustainable development.

The meeting’s insights explored AI’s impact on key sectors such as industry, education, healthcare, climate change, and services, ensuring AI serves humanity.

Ben Sokhean / Khmer Times