TLDR: Malaysia is leading the establishment of the ASEAN AI Safety Network, a regional initiative aimed at promoting shared standards in AI governance, ethics, and innovation. This move, aligning with Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship, emphasizes building trust in the digital ecosystem and proposes certification frameworks for AI systems, including large language models.
KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia is taking a pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation by spearheading the newly proposed ASEAN AI Safety Network. This initiative, announced on July 29, 2025, is designed to establish shared standards for artificial intelligence (AI) governance, ethics, and innovation across the ASEAN bloc. The move is a key component of Malaysia’s agenda during its ASEAN chairmanship this year.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo underscored the critical importance of embedding trust within the digital ecosystem to ensure a meaningful and inclusive digital transformation. He stated that the Ministry of Digital is committed to developing adaptable frameworks that encourage responsible innovation, rather than imposing rigid solutions. “This includes a commitment to continuous engagement by listening, learning and collaborating with like-minded partners to ensure today’s decisions lay the groundwork for a secure, inclusive and future-ready digital landscape,” Gobind Singh Deo affirmed.
During the ASEAN-China Forum on Digital Cooperation held in Shanghai, Minister Gobind proposed the implementation of certification frameworks for AI systems, including large language models (LLMs). These frameworks are intended to support the responsible adoption of AI by aligning technologies with national priorities, cultural contexts, and public expectations, thereby fostering trust throughout every stage of deployment.
Gobind reiterated that trust forms the cornerstone of effective digital transformation. As Malaysia strengthens its position as a regional digital leader, trust remains central to its national strategy, international partnerships, and the development of emerging technologies.
The economic impact of AI is projected to be substantial, with an estimated contribution of USD17.5 trillion to the global economy by 2030. This transformative technology is expected to revolutionize various sectors, including healthcare, education, and logistics. However, realizing this immense potential necessitates robust governance structures that inspire confidence and ensure ethical deployment.
Malaysia’s proactive stance on ethical, inclusive, and transparent digital policy has garnered international recognition. In 2024 alone, the country secured RM163.6 billion in digital investments, a testament to the growing international confidence in Malaysia’s digital landscape and its commitment to responsible technological advancement.
Separately, ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn also highlighted the launch of the ASEAN AI Safety Network (AI Safe) during the 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai. This initiative aims to enhance ethical innovation and safety protocols in AI, fostering regional cooperation and reflecting a commitment to ensuring trust, transparency, and accountability in AI development, particularly in light of challenges posed by generative AI, such as misinformation and cybersecurity threats. Dr. Kao emphasized the necessity of collaboration among governments, industry, and academia to create an inclusive, ethical, and sustainable AI future.
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Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo also noted that generative AI alone is projected to unlock up to $113.4 billion in productive capacity for Malaysia.
