A new chapter in the region’s digital transformation has begun. From 12 to 14 February 2025, the ASEAN Foundation officially launched AI Ready ASEAN, a regional initiative supported by Google.org, through the first Regional Policy Convening held at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta.
This landmark event brought together key stakeholders from all ten ASEAN Member States: policymakers, AI experts, and local implementing partners (LIPs) to foster collaboration and dialogue on the region’s AI readiness. The convening laid the groundwork for collective action towards an inclusive, ethical, and people-centered AI future for ASEAN.
The three-day programme kicked off with a formal launch ceremony, followed by two thought-provoking panel discussions. The first, “AI Landscape in ASEAN,” explored the current state of AI development across the region, highlighting both opportunities and challenges. The second, “AI Ready ASEAN Roadmap and Ethical AI,” focused on the importance of responsible innovation and the urgent need to create frameworks that put ethics and equity at the heart of AI.
Key messages from high-level speakers, including H.E. Amb. Bovonethat Douangchak, Ms. Putri Alam, H.E. Nararya S. Soeprapto, and H.E. Stella Christie, echoed a shared belief in ASEAN’s potential to lead in AI, provided that education, inclusivity, and cross-border collaboration are prioritised. Select sessions were livestreamed via ASEAN Foundation social media platforms to broaden reach and public engagement.
On the second day, the spotlight shifted to empowering local partners. A comprehensive induction session equipped LIPs with tools and strategies to implement the AI Ready ASEAN programme effectively in their countries. To further inspire bold thinking, the LIP Campaign Competition was launched, challenging partners to develop creative outreach campaigns aligned with the programme’s mission. The convening wrapped up with an immersive visit to Google Jakarta, offering participants a rare behind-the-scenes look at how AI is applied in real-world contexts. Through a masterclass and tour of Google’s facilities, LIPs gained hands-on insights that bridged policy, technology, and community impact.