The Biz ASEAN episode titled “AI and the ASEAN Future” explores the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) across the ASEAN region, focusing on its impact on economies, societies, and daily lives. The show highlights the increasing importance of AI as a new economic engine, replacing traditional drivers like trade and commerce. CIMB Group Holdings’ recent pioneering sustainability report on nature and biodiversity is introduced as a key example of regional innovation aligned with environmental responsibility. Market updates reveal cautious investor sentiment amid global inflation data and mixed regional stock performances. The core of the episode features an in-depth interview with Professor David Asia Vatham, an AI expert, who demystifies AI, emphasizing its practical applications in everyday life and business. He explains AI’s evolution from the 1950s to today’s widespread usage in navigation, healthcare, and administrative tasks. Professor David advocates for ASEAN countries to collaborate on a unified AI governance framework and develop region-specific AI models that reflect local cultures and data. He stresses the importance of government-led AI strategies, upskilling, and ethical frameworks to balance innovation with responsibility. The discussion also addresses risks such as bias, transparency issues, and cognitive deskilling, urging continuous learning and adaptation. The episode concludes by encouraging individuals and businesses to embrace AI proactively, highlighting its inevitability and transformative potential in shaping ASEAN’s future.

Summary by AI.