The Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN), a political and economic union of 10 States of South-East Asia, has also deliberated regularly on science, technology and innovation as they are integral components of all economies in ASEAN, regardless of the economic status of the Member State. On June 6 and 7, 2024, the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology, and Innovation (AMSTII -20) was held in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
AMSTII 20 was chaired by Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation Cambodia and aimed to engage in discussions, exchange ideas, share successful strategies, and explore possible collaborations in the field of science and technology, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). In his opening speech, Hun Manet, the Prime Minister of Cambodia stated that the meeting was a great opportunity to delve into the pivotal theme of “AI Application: Navigating the Future.” “Fuelled by the accumulation and organization of vast amounts of data, AI stands out prominently within the current landscape, alongside advancements in blockchain, quantum computing, data science, machine learning, augmented reality and virtual reality, deep learning, biotechnology and gene editing, and biometric authentication. Infact, AI has become ubiquitous in our lives, as evidenced by simple tasks such as searching for information on smartphones. While presenting many new opportunities, AI also brings forth significant challenges including ethical considerations, inclusivity, transparency, fairness, data privacy concerns, and the need for workforce reskilling,” Hun Manet remarked in his opening address. The Cambodian Prime Minister also called for adopting a human-centered approach to the use of AI and remarked that the introduction of AI requires in tandem the development of regulatory frameworks to support its progress by integrating contributions from all relevant stakeholders.
A statement on AI was issued on June 7 during AMSTTI 20 which recognised the significant transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a key driver of technological advancement and innovation. The statement called for ascertaining the need for concerted action and collaboration to harness the benefits of AI while proactively addressing its multifaceted social, economic, and ethical implications.
AMSTII 20 noted that AI is projected to significantly impact the ASEAN economy, potentially resulting in a 10 to 18% GDP uplift, valued at approximately USD1 trillion by the year 2030. It also commended the launch of the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics in February 2024, which is used as a foundational document to guide the effective governance of AI in the region and balancing the economic benefits of the rapidly advancing AI technology and its associated risks. ASEAN has also established a Working Group under the ASEAN Digital Senior Officials’ Meeting (ADGSOM) on AI Governance, aimed at addressing pertinent issues concerning AI governance, including the governance of generative AI, and fostering safe, responsible and ethical use of AI.
The statement on AI also welcomed the launch of ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation (COSTI) Tracks on AI (ACT on AI) for 2024-2025, aimed at expanding regional capacity development initiatives on AI. It also noted the Discussion Paper on the Responsible Development and Use of Generative AI in ASEAN, to complement and enhance the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics.
AMSTII 20 highlighted the importance of promoting a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and collaboration among ASEAN Member States to responsibly harness the potential of emerging technologies, including AI, in tackling common challenges and opportunities in areas such as healthcare, education, information, agriculture, manufacturing and environmental sustainability. It also recognised the potential of leveraging AI technologies to foster inclusive and equitable economic growth, improved access to education, healthcare, and essential services, and mitigate socio-economic disparities within the societies of ASEAN Member States, with a commitment to ensuring the equitable distribution of AI benefits across all segments of society.
The statement on AI also underscored the importance of investing in AI infrastructure, encompassing data centres, computing resources, and connectivity, to bolster the advancement and deployment of responsible AI applications and services throughout ASEAN. It also encouraged collaborative efforts towards the establishment of regional AI infrastructure initiatives and platforms to facilitate knowledge exchange, data sharing, technology transfer and collaboration among researchers, innovators, and entrepreneurs.
ASEAN Member States have reiterated their commitment to uphold ethical principles and values in the development and deployment of AI systems, ensuring transparency, fairness, inclusivity, accountability, and respect for human dignity and rights.
