AI governance and data sovereignty prioritized in Southeast Asia

Legislators and researchers are emphasizing the need for robust governance and data sovereignty as Artificial Intelligence (AI) expands across Southeast Asia. In Indonesia, the BKSAP DPR RI's AI Working Group is advocating for comprehensive regulations to protect national interests and ensure data security. Bramantyo Suwondo, Vice Chairman of BKSAP DPR RI, highlighted the importance of maintaining control over national data amidst rapid AI development and the push for sovereign AI through local models and digital infrastructure.

On a regional level, experts suggest that ASEAN's strength lies in collective bargaining and understanding localized AI risks rather than competing directly with global AI powers like the US, China, or the EU. Jam Kraprayoon, a senior researcher at the Institute for AI Policing Strategy, noted that while global leaders shape frontier AI, Southeast Asian nations face unique cybersecurity challenges due to varying levels of digital maturity. He suggests that by leveraging their large shared market, ASEAN countries can collectively influence global AI governance.