Summary:
Le 7 octobre 2025, le Secrétaire général de l’ASEAN a prononcé des remarques spéciales lors du Sommet UK–ASEAN sur l’Innovation en IA 2025 à Kuala Lumpur, en Malaisie. L’objectif est de souligner la gouvernance responsable de l’IA et de renforcer la coopération ASEAN–Royaume-Uni en matière d’innovation numérique. Parmi les points clés, on trouve l’engagement de l’ASEAN envers une IA responsable à travers des initiatives telles que le Guide de l’ASEAN sur la gouvernance et l’éthique de l’IA et la prochaine Déclaration sur le Réseau de Sécurité de l’IA de l’ASEAN, ainsi que l’intégration de l’IA dans des domaines collaboratifs tels que le développement durable et la santé intelligente via le Dialogue ASEAN–Royaume-Uni sur la Science, la Technologie et l’Innovation.
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Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, recently delivered significant remarks at the UK–ASEAN AI Innovation Summit 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. His comments focused on ASEAN’s proactive stance toward responsible AI governance. Among the initiatives highlighted were the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics and the upcoming ASEAN AI Safety Network Declaration, both of which aim to establish unified principles and protocols for the ethical use of artificial intelligence across member states.
The digital economy of the ASEAN region is poised for remarkable growth, with projections estimating a value of USD 1 trillion by 2030. With the introduction of the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), this figure could potentially double to USD 2 trillion. This exponential potential underscores the necessity for robust AI integration into economic and technological frameworks, not just within ASEAN but also in collaboration with external partners like the UK. Dr. Kao’s emphasis on embedding AI into ASEAN–UK cooperation highlights the strategic importance of this relationship, particularly in areas such as sustainable development and advanced health technologies.
**Legal Context**: ASEAN’s ongoing efforts in AI governance resonate with broader international movements toward regulating AI. For example, the EU’s Artificial Intelligence Act provides a legal framework to address AI applications’ risks while enhancing trust and innovation. The initiatives mentioned by Dr. Kao align similarly with the principles of transparency, fairness, and accountability. The ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics, while not yet legally binding, sets a foundational precedent for future legislative measures in the region. Implementation of the ASEAN AI Safety Network Declaration could further cement a regulatory structure as ASEAN nations work to navigate the challenges posed by AI.
**Ethical Analysis**: Responsible AI development must address ethical concerns such as bias, accountability, and transparency. The initiatives described by Dr. Kao seem aimed at mitigating these risks through regional cohesion. For instance, a shared framework for AI ethics can guard against algorithmic discrimination that might exacerbate social inequalities in diverse ASEAN nations. Additionally, Dr. Kao’s mention of AI for sustainable development reflects an ethical commitment to align technological growth with ecological responsibility—a model that could be expanded globally.
**Industry Implications**: The announcements present significant opportunities for public-private collaboration. Companies engaged in AI development—particularly those in sectors like health tech and environmental solutions—stand to benefit from ASEAN’s burgeoning digital economy and its focus on responsible AI governance. For example, UK-based firms pioneering smart health technologies could find new markets and research opportunities through coordinated efforts under the ASEAN–UK Dialogue on Science, Technology, and Innovation (AUKDSTI). Furthermore, shared AI standards could reduce barriers for technology adoption, enabling startups and established firms alike to scale across the ASEAN region.
Concrete examples demonstrate the real-world applications of these initiatives. The integration of AI-driven supply chain solutions could streamline trade and reduce costs across ASEAN nations, aligning with the DEFA’s goals. Smart health technologies powered by AI could enhance healthcare delivery in underserved rural areas, directly contributing to the region’s social development.
In conclusion, ASEAN’s approach to AI governance, as articulated by Dr. Kao, balances optimism for economic growth with a firm commitment to ethical and responsible technology use. By fostering regional and international collaborations—exemplified by the ASEAN–UK partnership—ASEAN is positioning itself as a hub for AI innovation that prioritizes both prosperity and principles.