
Mosti: AI Disruption Looms in Malaysia, 600,000 Workers Must Reskill in Three to Five Years
Malaysia's Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI) warns of AI-driven disruption in the workforce, highlighting the need for 600,000 workers to reskill within three to five years. The government is focusing on upskilling initiatives and industry collaborations to prepare the workforce for the evolving digital economy.

Vietnam Offers Up to 50% of Initial Investment Costs for Semiconductor and AI Investors
Vietnam is offering subsidies covering up to 50% of initial investment costs to attract semiconductor and AI investors. This initiative, combined with tax breaks and workforce development programs, positions Vietnam as a key player in the global tech supply chain and supports its ambitions to become a technology hub.

Vietnam Set to Become Regional Manufacturing Tech Hub This Year
Vietnam is poised to establish itself as a regional manufacturing and technology hub in 2025, driven by robust foreign investments and strategic government initiatives. With advancements in digital transformation and manufacturing capabilities, Vietnam is strengthening its role as a key player in ASEAN's industrial landscape.

Thailand Eyes High-tech Collaboration and Export Growth in Landmark Japan Visit
Thailand is seeking to boost its export potential and high-tech collaborations during a pivotal visit to Japan. The delegation, led by Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, aims to strengthen bilateral trade relations and foster partnerships in advanced technology sectors, paving the way for sustainable economic growth.

Maybank Launches Money Lock, a Market-first Feature to Protect Funds from Online Scams
Maybank has introduced "Money Lock," an innovative feature to safeguard customers from online scams. A first-of-its-kind in the market, this feature allows users to set limits on their bank accounts, restricting online transfers and enhancing security. This initiative is part of Maybank's commitment to addressing the rising threats of digital fraud.

Philippine Economy on Cusp of Growth Amid Tech Advancements & Sustainability Focus — Laguesma
The Philippines is poised for robust economic growth in 2025, driven by advancements in technology and a renewed focus on sustainability, according to Labor Secretary E. Laguesma. Emphasising the role of digital transformation and eco-conscious initiatives, Laguesma highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development to boost the nation’s economy.

Indonesia’s Apple and Google Bans Frustrate Country’s Tech Fans
Indonesia’s decision to ban certain Apple and Google services has sparked frustration among tech enthusiasts, disrupting access to widely used platforms. The government cites regulatory concerns, but the move has ignited debates about digital freedom and the economic impact on the country’s tech ecosystem.

Malaysia to Shoulder Major Responsibility as ASEAN 2025 Chair — PM
Malaysia is set to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasizsng the nation's commitment to inclusivity and sustainability. He highlighted the importance of addressing challenges faced by marginalised groups and ensuring equitable prosperity across the region. Anwar also stressed the need for Malaysia to enhance governance and eradicate corruption to effectively lead ASEAN.

TM, PETRONAS and Gentari Ink MoU to Drive Digital Transformation for Industries
TM, Petronas, and Gentari have signed an MoU to drive digital transformation and sustainable innovation for industries in Malaysia, focusing on data centers, cloud solutions, 5G, AI, and clean energy.

Indonesia’s Protectionist Policies Aimed at Attracting Tech Investment May Backfire
Indonesia’s local content policies, aimed at attracting investment from tech giants like Apple, may backfire, warn economists, as the country faces challenges in leveraging foreign investment for long-term growth.

PH-US Tie-up for Workforce Training & Tech Transfer Key to Semicon Industry
PH-US collaboration advances semiconductor industry with workforce training, tech transfer, and a $500M US initiative to strengthen talent development.

VNeID Expected to Become Vietnam’s Super App
Thailand's Digital ID framework enters Phase 2 (2025-2027), aiming to expand e-government services, include foreigners, and pilot digital IDs for legal entities, enhancing secure digital transactions.

Thailand's Digital Economy Booms Amid Surge in Foreign Investment
Thailand's digital economy has grown significantly, contributing 23.9% to the national GDP in 2024, fueled by foreign investment from companies like Google and Microsoft, and government initiatives.

Security Bank, FWD Philippines Extend Strategic Partnership
FWD LIFE Insurance Corp. (FWD Life Philippines) and Security Bank Corp. have extended their bancassurance partnership amid a positive outlook for the insurance industry.
The companies’ partnership began in October 2014.

Axiata and Sinar Mas to Forge US$6.5b Telco Giant in Indonesia to Drive 5G Expansion
New enlarged entity XLSmart expected to deliver annual pre-tax savings of up to US$400 million through network integration and resource optimisation

Malaysia’s Tenaga Nasional Partners Sembcorp Power for Cross-Border Renewable-Energy Trade
Malaysia’s Tenaga Nasional (TNB), a government-owned integrated power utility company, and Singapore’s licensed electricity importer, Sembcorp Power, have signed an agreement to supply renewable energy to Singapore.

Singapore Startup Aims for Quantum Cryptography Satellite Launch in 2025
Singapore’s aerospace innovation soars with plans to launch a quantum cryptography satellite in 2025, marking a milestone in secure satellite communications beyond China.

OCBC to Triple Quantum Workforce to Boost Security
OCBC Bank has leveraged quantum computing to enhance cybersecurity and employee productivity, achieving a threefold increase in operational efficiency. By integrating quantum technology into workforce management, the bank demonstrates its commitment to innovation and security, setting a new standard in the banking sector.

Singapore and Vietnam Firms in Talks for New Undersea Cables
Keppel and Sovico explore undersea cable projects linking Singapore, Vietnam, and Japan to expand Southeast Asia’s data infrastructure amid rising AI demands.

Malaysia Launches National AI Office for Policy & Regulation
Malaysia's National AI Office aims to position the nation as a regional AI hub with strategic partnerships and a robust roadmap for ethical and sustainable AI development.