JAKARTA, June 18 — Indonesia has pressed for the development of a common ASEAN artificial intelligence (AI) governance framework, warning that unequal access to the technology could deepen disparities across Southeast Asia.
ANTARA news agency reported that Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid said AI has the potential to accelerate economic growth, improve productivity, and strengthen competitiveness, but could also pose significant risks if left unchecked.
A common AI governance framework would enable ASEAN member states to collectively manage the opportunities and challenges arising from the technology.
“This risk is not only for Indonesia but for the entire region. If access is unequal, AI will deepen the gap between those who have it and those who do not, both within our countries and between our countries,” she said during the Asia Economic Summit 2026.
As AI advances, data is becoming increasingly valuable yet vulnerable to cybercrime, underscoring the importance of maintaining control over data and ensuring AI models understand local languages and values.
“Rather than slowing AI development, governments should respond strategically by building governance frameworks together and turning potential risks into collective strengths,” Meutya said.