Indonesia calls for joint ASEAN AI framework to bridge digital divide

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid on Wednesday called on ASEAN countries to develop a common artificial intelligence (AI) governance framework to prevent the technology from widening the region's digital divide.

Speaking at the Asia Economic Summit 2026 in Jakarta, Hafid said AI could accelerate economic growth, improve productivity, and strengthen competitiveness, but could also create significant risks if left unchecked.

"And 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.

As AI becomes more advanced, data is growing more valuable while also becoming a more attractive target for cybercrime, she said. She noted that the cost of carrying out fraud is now approaching zero and that deepfake technology knows no national borders.

She warned that allowing others to control data could also allow them to shape the region's future, while global AI models that fail to learn local languages and values could erode ASEAN's identity.

Rather than slowing AI development, those challenges should encourage governments to act strategically and build governance frameworks together, she said, turning risks into collective strengths.

Indonesia is promoting AI development in ASEAN based on three principles: sovereign, interoperable, and trusted. The approach emphasizes national control over data, computing capacity, and AI models, while supporting open standards, cross-border recognition, and shared safeguards aligned with ASEAN AI governance principles.

Hafid said trust should be viewed as an enabler rather than an obstacle, arguing that it is essential for expanding AI adoption and attracting investment across the region.

She also highlighted the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) as a key initiative to advance regional digital cooperation, noting that ASEAN's digital economy is currently valued at about US$300 billion and could reach US$2 trillion by 2030 if the agreement is implemented.

The minister said the benefits should extend to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, which account for about 97 percent of businesses in ASEAN, helping translate digital growth into broader regional prosperity.

"Let's not only move fast, but also move wisely. Let's not only stay connected, but also become empowered. Indonesia is ready to work with Singapore and all ASEAN partners to build a digital future that truly belongs to all of us," Hafid said.

Related news: Indonesia pushes youth to utilize AI to boost creative economy

Related news: Minister highlights urgency of specific AI laws for Indonesia

Translator: Sri Dewi Larasati, Martha Herlinawati Simanjuntak

Editor: Arie Novarina

Copyright © ANTARA 2026