The Asia School of Business (ASB) hosted the AI-Powered Leadership Conference in Kuala Lumpur, bringing together global AI experts, CEOs, regional innovators and policymakers to discuss the impact of artificial intelligence on leadership and organisational strategy.

The conference, held with strategic support from TRX City Sdn Bhd, highlighted the growing importance of AI-ready leadership for economic growth in Malaysia and the wider Southeast Asian region.

In his welcome address, Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo, said, “Leadership in the new age of intelligence demands trust and transparency to drive growth and return on investment. Beyond managing teams, leaders must understand AI’s ethical implications for jobs and equity, proactively anticipating risks like algorithmic bias and cybersecurity. Corporate leaders must adopt human-centred AI principles, ensuring technology serves people first by augmenting human judgment and enhancing the human touch.”

Keynote speakers included Professor De Kai, a pioneer in AI language models and member of Google’s AI ethics council, who noted, “Artificial Intelligence are not gods or slaves. They’re attention seeking children who want your approval. We are not parenting them but they are already influencing us unconsciously and it will continue to influence us even more if we keep thinking of them as mechanical tools.”

Other speakers included former Alibaba executive Brian Wong and Professor Hiroshi Ishiguro, known for his research in interactive robotics and human–AI interaction. ASB faculty, including Professor Ong Shien Jin and Professor David Asirvatham, provided insights into AI-driven decision-making, leadership dynamics and organisational transformation.

Joe Cherian, CEO and Dean of ASB, said the conference aims to equip leaders with the knowledge and ethical framework to navigate AI’s growing influence across industries and societies. ASB has invested in programmes such as the Micro-Credential in AI for Business Leaders and Certified AI Leader courses to support AI-driven organisational transformation.

TRX City Sdn Bhd also emphasised the role of AI-ready leadership in strengthening Malaysia’s financial ecosystem. Dato’ Sr Azmar Talib, CEO of TRX City, said, “AI is reshaping global finance and Malaysia must stay ahead of the curve. Our partnership with ASB reflects our commitment to building an international financial centre that attracts top talent, accelerates innovation and strengthens Malaysia’s position in the region.”

The conference featured technology exhibitors including ThakralOne, iFLYTEK, Biline, Beyond Insights, Symprio, Galactic Network and Vetece Holdings, alongside support from PIKOM, Malaysia’s National Tech Association, as part of efforts to boost the nation’s digital economy and innovation landscape.