Initiative aims to set regional standards for responsible AI development, ethics, and governance
ASEAN is set to adopt a declaration establishing the ASEAN AI Safety Network (ASEAN AI Safe) at its 47th Summit in 2026, marking a key step towards regional cooperation on artificial intelligence safety, ethics, and governance.
Advancing Responsible AI Governance
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn announced that the network will institutionalise AI safety principles endorsed by ASEAN Digital Ministers, supporting the ASEAN Responsible AI Roadmap. ASEAN AI Safe will facilitate collaboration among governments, academia, and industry to address AI safety risks.
Global Alignment and Early 2026 Launch
Dr Kao said the initiative aligns with global calls for international AI safety frameworks. The network is expected to be formally established by early 2026, strengthening the region’s commitment to responsible AI development.
Malaysia Showcases Home-Grown AI
The announcement was made during the ASEAN Artificial Intelligence Malaysia Summit 2025, where Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim launched ‘ILMU’—a home-grown AI developed by YTL AI Labs in partnership with Universiti Malaya.
AI’s Economic Potential
Dr Kao highlighted AI’s projected contribution of 10–18% to ASEAN’s GDP by 2030, equating to nearly US$1 trillion. With the ASEAN Digital Economic Framework Agreement (DEFA) underway, this figure could potentially double to US$2 trillion by enhancing the region’s digital ecosystem.
Building Strategic Trust in Digital Transformation
He stressed that the first ASEAN AI Summit provided a timely opportunity to deepen regional cooperation, build strategic trust, and guide inclusive innovation amid global economic volatility and rapid AI advancements.
The ASEAN AI Safety Network will position the region as a leader in responsible AI governance, balancing innovation with ethical safeguards. Coupled with DEFA, it could unlock trillions in digital economic growth by 2030.
Sources: Malay Mail (2025) , Bernama (2025)
Keywords: ASEAN AI Safe, AI Safety Network, Responsible AI Governance, ASEAN Digital Economy, AI Summit Malaysia, ASEAN DEFA
