Could BRICS be ASEAN's next big ally? Malaysia’s Tengku Zafrul calls on ASEAN members to see the group as an opportunity to boost regional influence. Dive into the potential of this partnership to reshape Southeast Asia's global footprint!

Micron Technology's $9.5 billion semiconductor plant in Singapore will bolster the country's role in the AI sector and generate up to 3,000 jobs. The facility, set to produce advanced DRAM chips for AI applications, underscores Singapore's importance in the global tech supply chain.

Thailand aims to increase the number of local AI firms by 7.5 times within five years as part of its ambitious digital economy strategy. Key initiatives include government support, partnerships with private enterprises, and investments in AI-driven innovations to enhance competitiveness and economic growth.

Indonesia is set to draft a comprehensive national regulation on artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance governance and promote ethical development of AI technologies. The proposed regulation aims to address the challenges posed by rapid AI advancements while supporting innovation across sectors such as healthcare, education, and transportation.

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 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 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 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 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.

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 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 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 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 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 collaboration advances semiconductor industry with workforce training, tech transfer, and a $500M US initiative to strengthen talent development.

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 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.

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.

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 (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.