A Watershed Year for AI
“2025 is a watershed moment for AI, triggering a metamorphosis across the global economic landscape,” declared Datuk Ng Yih Pyng, President of the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) in his opening remarks.
The statistics he cited underscored the scale of transformation: according to the UN Trade and Development report, the global AI market is projected to leap from US$189 billion in 2023 to a staggering US$4.8 trillion by 2033, a 25-fold increase in just a decade. For ASEAN, this is not merely a trend to watch but a tide to ride. “Those who ‘wait and see’ on AI risk being left behind,” he cautioned.
For countries, AI’s promise hinges on three strategic levers. Datuk Ng outlined the strategic levers as the upgrading of digital infrastructure to ensure robust connectivity, open data systems, and shared platforms. Building AI skills, from STEM integration in education to lifelong learning for workers and embedding AI in education through the introduction of digital fluency from early schooling and continuing throughout life.
These pillars, he shared, align closely with Malaysia’s National AI Action Plan 2030, a blueprint focused on developing a thriving AI ecosystem, nurturing digital talent, strengthening infrastructure, and modernising public services.
Dato’ Seri N Gobalakrishnan, National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (NCCIM) President for the ASEAN AI Summit 2025, complemented this national perspective with ASEAN’s broader lens. As Malaysia assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, he emphasised that this is not just a moment to reflect on past achievements but a year to chart bold, forward-looking strategies for the future. “Few issues are as pressing, transformative, and unifying as the rise of Artificial Intelligence,” he reminded delegates.
At the heart of this commitment lies Malaysia’s AI Nation Framework, part of the Strategic Blueprint 2026–2030. Anchored in the Madani vision, it rests on five pillars, forward-looking policy and regulation, talent cultivation, robust digital infrastructure, strengthened trust, and strategic investment. The goal is clear, ensure AI fuels not just economic growth but also social progress and public confidence.
Both presidents made it clear, that ASEAN cannot afford complacency. With its youthful demographics, vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, and rapidly growing digital economies, the region is uniquely positioned to lead. Yet leadership will only be secured if strategies are forward-looking, inclusive, and executed with urgency.
Harnessing AI for ASEAN’s Collective Strength
With over 700 million citizens, the region is an economic powerhouse brimming with diversity and potential. Yet this diversity needs to be navigated. Member states are at varying stages of digital readiness and AI adoption.
“There are remaining structural challenges hindering the optimal utilisation of AI technology,” Datuk Ng acknowledged. These include regulatory inconsistencies, data privacy concerns, a shortage of AI talent, and the immense energy demands of data centres.
Dato’ Seri N. Gobalakrishnan echoed these challenges, reframing them as an opportunity. ASEAN, he argued, can lead the world in defining what ethical, inclusive AI looks like. “AI should be grounded in trust, rooted in equity, and proudly shaped by Southeast Asian values,” he said, adding that it’s not about mimicking Silicon Valley or Shenzhen but about charting an ASEAN-specific path that leverages local strengths while upholding shared values.
SMEs: From Periphery to Centre
A recurring theme was the need to democratise AI for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Too often, AI is seen as the preserve of large corporations with deep pockets and technical teams. But as both presidents stressed, SMEs form the backbone of ASEAN economies, and their empowerment is essential.
“For SMEs, the challenges are greater. Many lack awareness, expertise, or confidence. AI adoption is often perceived as a luxury,” Datuk Ng admitted. Yet the reality is stark: SMEs that fail to adopt AI risk losing their competitive edge. Conversely, those that leap—however small—stand to gain operational efficiency, sharper customer insights, and streamlined supply chains.
Dato’ Seri Gobalakrishnan sees AI as not just a competitiveness tool but an equaliser. NCCIM, through its five constituent chambers; Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Malaysia (DPMM), The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM), Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI), Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) and Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) is forging AI as a catalyst for equitable development. The challenge lies in making AI affordable, practical, and accessible.
The Role of Collaboration
If there was one word that tied both speeches together, it was collaboration.
Datuk Ng emphasised that the collective actions of governments and industry stakeholders could make a significant difference. “The future of AI in ASEAN is not a pursuit by any single country; it requires well-coordination and collaboration of ASEAN member countries,” he said.
“Governments create the frameworks, but it is businesses, start-ups, and innovators who will translate potential into reality,” Dato’ Seri Gobalakrishnan asserted. Public–private partnerships, regional cooperation, and cross-sectoral dialogue will be the engines that drive ASEAN’s AI vision forward.
From Vision to Action
The summit agenda itself mirrored the breadth of AI’s potential, covering enterprise solutions, healthcare, education, creative industries, smart cities, agriculture, ESG, manufacturing, and workforce development. This broad scope reflects not just the influence of AI but also ASEAN’s ambition to be a global hub for ethical and sustainable innovation.
Datuk Ng pledged ACCCIM’s commitment to leverage its domestic and international networks to push forward AI initiatives, ensuring the region realises its full potential. Meanwhile, Dato’ Seri Gobalakrishnan invited delegates to view the summit as a springboard for further action.
“The story of ASEAN has always been one of collaboration, innovation, and resilience. As we enter this new era of Artificial Intelligence, let us write the next chapter together—one where technology uplifts humanity, where growth is inclusive, and where ASEAN continues to shine as a beacon of opportunity.”
As the day unfolded with panel discussions and knowledge exchanges, one message lingered: AI is not an abstract future. It is here, shaping the present. For ASEAN, the choice is clear—embrace AI boldly, collaboratively, and responsibly, or risk being left behind.
