ASEAN-China Must Act Now to Harness AI for Regional Empowerment

By Linda Khoo Hui Li

KUALA LUMPUR, April 11 (Bernama) -- ASEAN and China should take concrete steps towards establishing joint artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives – such as research centres and talent development programmes – to empower people and build a smarter, more connected future.

Chairman of the Centre of Regional Strategic Studies (CROSS), Lee Chean Chung, said that with over two billion people and vibrant economies, ASEAN and China are well-positioned to co-create the future of AI.

“We should pursue the establishment of joint ASEAN-China AI research centres, cross-border innovation hubs, and regional talent development programmes.

“Imagine a future where a diagnostic AI tool developed in Beijing supports a rural healthcare system in Borneo, or where blockchain-enabled ports in Guangxi and Klang share real-time logistics data. This future is within reach – if we work together. Let us seize this AI revolution,” he said in a plenary session at the ASEAN-China Media and Think Tank Forum (picture) on Friday.

As ASEAN Chair, Lee said Malaysia is well-positioned to lead the region’s digital transformation.

“Malaysia’s strategic location, diverse and multilingual talent pool, robust infrastructure, and collaborative mindset make it a natural hub for AI development in the region.

“AI is reshaping how we live, work, and govern. If harnessed wisely, it can usher in a new era of shared prosperity, innovation, and equity.  However, if we ignore its risks or fail to manage it responsibly, we risk deepening inequality and widening the digital divide,” he said.

Lee said ASEAN and China must collaborate to invest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, launch AI fellowship programmes, and expand youth exchange initiatives.

These efforts will not only help build a globally ready workforce but also strengthen long-term bonds across borders, he said.

“Malaysia is committed to this vision. Through the CROSS, we are actively promoting forward-looking AI policy development and collaboration,” he said.

The one-day inaugural forum was opened by Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof earlier Friday, with Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil and Xinhua News Agency Chief Editor Lyu Yansong among those present.

Jointly organised by Bernama and Xinhua News Agency under the theme ‘Strengthening ASEAN-China Cooperation’, the event drew over 200 participants -- including influential media leaders, representatives, senior government officials and experts from across the ASEAN region and China – to deepen engagement in the ever-evolving media landscape.

-- BERNAMA