Regulations on the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in Southeast Asia are crucial to ensure ethical practices and protect the diverse perspectives and experiences of people in the region, according to experts. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is currently drafting the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics, which is planned for release in early 2024.
Elina Noor, a senior fellow for the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace’s Asia Program, highlighted that ASEAN governments predominantly view AI from a pragmatic and utilitarian perspective. They see it as a tool to boost economic growth and enhance public services. However, Noor emphasized the need to approach AI discussions with a more holistic and organic framework that considers historical, social, and cultural aspects. She further stated that ASEAN should set rules and ethics for AI to shape its digital future based on the national aspirations of each member state while addressing any structural inequities.
Developing guidelines for AI is seen as important for ASEAN as it promotes a unified approach and grants the region autonomy in the realm of digital technology. Monchito Ibrahim, lead convener of the Alliance of Tech Innovators for the Nation in Manila, expressed his relief at seeing ASEAN develop AI guidelines. He stressed the importance of achieving a balance between the economic benefits and potential risks of AI, which is revolutionizing various aspects of society.
AI plays a pivotal role in Singapore’s vision of becoming a smart nation, with the government allocating nearly S$700 million ($519.1 million) to AI-related research. In Thailand, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has implemented an AI-powered CCTV network to prevent motorcyclists from riding on footpaths and ensure compliance with traffic laws. Malaysia has introduced Aina Sabrina, the country’s first AI-powered radio DJ on Fly FM, and Indonesian television station tvOne has developed Nadira, a virtual television anchor based on their real-life news anchor Fahada Indi.
James Pang Yan, co-director of the National University of Singapore’s Business Analytics Center, believes that now is the opportune time to establish guidelines for AI due to the technology’s rapid advancement and significant impact on everyday life. Additionally, he underlined the need to consider the requirements of countries like Laos and Myanmar, which are still in the early stages of AI development.
To navigate the ethical landscape of AI, ASEAN’s forthcoming guide will play a crucial role in shaping the responsible and equitable use of this technology across the region. By establishing regulations and guidelines, ASEAN will effectively chart its digital future, leveraging the potential of AI to address societal challenges and bridge any existing gaps among member states.
