Countries across Southeast Asia are reviving nuclear energy plans to support the rapid expansion of AI-driven data centres and reduce reliance on volatile fossil fuel supplies. The shift reflects growing pressure to meet surging electricity demand while ensuring long-term energy security amid geopolitical disruptions.

National Security Council highlights Malaysia’s rising global relevance, driven by its strategic location along key trade routes and its role in semiconductors and emerging technologies. As AI reshapes modern security threats, the country is positioned to play a more critical role in global stability and digital-era defence.

Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a national energy emergency as escalating Middle East tensions threaten global oil supply and drive up fuel costs. The move signals growing concern over inflation, transport disruptions, and long-term energy security risks in a highly import-dependent economy.

Vietnam is advancing the enforcement of its cybersecurity law through a national implementation plan covering regulations, training and compliance monitoring. The move signals increasing regulatory focus on cybersecurity, data protection and risk management for organisations operating in the country.

Malaysia is strengthening its AI and digital capabilities to reduce reliance on external technologies and enhance national resilience. The move highlights a growing focus on technological sovereignty, responsible AI governance and secure digital infrastructure amid global uncertainty.

Indonesia is drafting a national AI regulation and roadmap to support innovation while ensuring ethical, transparent and accountable AI development. The initiative reflects a growing focus on balancing technological advancement with governance, data protection and risk management across ASEAN.

Bursa Malaysia said cybersecurity incidents reported at several brokerage firms were limited to the brokers’ internal systems and did not affect the exchange’s networks or trading platforms. Market operations continued as usual, while affected brokers conduct forensic investigations and review cybersecurity safeguards.

The Philippines is investigating more individuals after three Filipinos were accused of leaking sensitive data to China, including information on resupply missions and internal discussions related to the South China Sea dispute. Officials warn that the suspects may have received significant payments, while China has denied the allegations.

Indonesia has issued new regulations governing the use of artificial intelligence and digital technology in education. Signed by seven cabinet ministers, the policy outlines age-based guidelines, permitted uses, and screen-time limits to ensure responsible technology adoption across schools while supporting digital learning.

Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology will establish a National Artificial Intelligence Development Fund for 2026–2027 as part of implementing the country’s new AI Law. The plan includes building AI clusters across high-tech parks, innovation centres and digital technology zones, supported by national datasets, AI regulations and a new ethics framework. Authorities also aim to strengthen AI infrastructure, develop human capital and coordinate nationwide AI governance to accelerate innovation while ensuring safety and regulatory oversight.

A leaked trove of 12,000 documents on the dark web alleges that 255 Singapore organisations connected to critical information infrastructure sectors—including telecommunications, energy and finance—were targeted in covert cyber operations. Cybersecurity experts warn that small and medium-sized enterprises in digital supply chains could be the weakest link as state-backed threats grow increasingly sophisticated.

Escalating conflict in the Middle East is raising serious concerns for global supply chains. Thai industry leaders warn that war-risk insurance premiums for shipping could surge by up to 400–500%, increasing freight costs and disrupting key maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. As shipping capacity tightens and logistics costs climb, manufacturers and exporters in Thailand and across Asia may face growing pressure on trade and production.

A recent US Supreme Court ruling on tariff authority is reshaping Thailand–US trade dynamics. While the decision clarifies legal limits on emergency tariffs, protectionist measures and trade enforcement remain active. As Thailand’s exports to the US surge, businesses must strengthen supply chain resilience, compliance systems, and global partnerships to navigate a more volatile trade environment.

Thailand recorded its strongest export growth in four years in January 2026, with shipments rising 24.4% year-on-year amid surging global demand for AI-linked electronics and data centre infrastructure. Imports climbed 29.4%, reflecting increased purchases of raw materials and machinery, as Bangkok moves forward with US trade talks while balancing a widening trade surplus with the United States and a deficit with China.

Malaysia has halted approvals for new data centres unrelated to artificial intelligence in a move to manage rising electricity and water demand. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said projects supporting high-technology and AI development will receive priority, as the government drafts a comprehensive AI Governance Bill focused on risk classification, ethical safeguards, intellectual property protection and lifecycle oversight of AI systems.

Indonesia is accelerating its semiconductor ambitions through a strategic agreement between Danantara and Arm Limited to train 15,000 engineers in advanced chip design. Backed by an initial US$150 million investment, the initiative focuses on building national intellectual property across automotive, IoT, data centers, AI, and emerging technologies such as autonomous vehicles and quantum computing, positioning Indonesia as a high-value player in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Artificial intelligence has emerged as a central pillar of Singapore’s economic strategy under Budget 2026, positioning the nation as a regional AI hub amid global trade fragmentation and technological disruption. With the launch of a National AI Council, sector-specific AI missions and expanded workforce upskilling initiatives, the government aims to drive productivity gains, strengthen competitiveness and lift long-term growth toward the upper end of Singapore’s historic 2–3 per cent annual average.

Thailand must transition from being a technology “user” to a “co-creator” to safeguard national security and long-term competitiveness, according to NECTEC Director Dr Chai Wutiwiwatchai. Emphasising digital sovereignty, AI development and home-grown innovation, NECTEC outlined plans to strengthen Thailand’s technological foundations through smart farming systems, AI testing labs, medical AI and sustainable manufacturing initiatives.