ASEAN, China working to build inclusive AI future

Implement holistic but differentiated AI regulation

By Ooli Gunalan Manickam

AI is developing at an extraordinary pace and increasingly becoming part of how governments, industries and societies function. It offers tremendous opportunities to enhance productivity, strengthen public services and create new sources of economic growth. However, the spread of AI also raises questions about safety, security and public trust.

The challenge is not just adopting AI quickly but also advancing AI innovation responsibly, securely and with public trust. ASEAN has made encouraging progress in establishing a common foundation for responsible AI, with ASEAN member states progressing according to their respective circumstances. Some have introduced national AI governance guidelines, while others focus on practical testing, assurance and regulatory approaches.

With different economies, institutions and levels of AI readiness, what is important now is how countries translate the established principles into responsible practices.

ASEAN and China can exchange experiences in AI risk assessment, testing, safety and responsible deployment, learning from each other while allowing countries to tailor approaches to their national circumstances.

The discussion should be broadened from AI safety to digital trust. AI capabilities raise concerns about deepfakes, impersonation, scams and manipulated content. Citizens increasingly question the authenticity of digital content. These are questions of public confidence and digital trust.

ASEAN-China exchanges on responsible use of generative AI and strengthening confidence in digital content are valuable. This may include sharing experiences and good practices in AI safety, content authenticity and identifying manipulated or AI-generated content.

ASEAN members and China do not necessarily need identical AI regulations. Every country has its own legal system, development priorities and approach to technology governance. Diversity should help foster a common understanding of what safe, responsible and trustworthy AI means in practice. Countries should understand AI risks, evaluation, safeguards and human responsibility. That's why ASEAN countries and China should strive for greater mutual understanding, confidence and cooperation.

AI will continue evolving. ASEAN and China can continue learning from each other, moving from principles to practice, strengthening digital trust and building greater understanding across national approaches.

This cooperation supports innovation while keeping safety, security and the interests of people at the center of AI development. Together, we can work toward an AI future that is more innovative, secure, responsible and trusted by society.

The author is the senior undersecretary of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, Malaysia.

The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.

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