Singapore’s Communications and Information Minister, Josephine Teo, emphasized the need for increased cooperation among ASEAN member states to counter the growing menace of cyber threats, particularly those driven by artificial intelligence (AI). Teo delivered this message on February 1 during the fourth ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting, a two-day conference in Singapore focused on technology-related discussions.
The meeting, formerly known as the ASEAN Telecommunications and Information Technology Ministers Meeting, is being held in Singapore for the first time in 11 years at the Shangri-La Hotel. Teo, who is also the Minister-in-charge of Smart Nation and Cybersecurity, stressed the heightened relevance of international collaboration amid the escalating risks associated with technological advancements.
In her opening address, Teo acknowledged the potential of digital technologies to foster opportunities but also highlighted the associated risks, particularly the current wave’s potential to deepen societal fault lines and sow distrust. She cited the challenge of ensuring that digital developments are rooted in a foundation of trust and pointed out the threat posed by AI-generated deepfakes, referencing recent instances in Singapore involving political figures endorsing scams.
ASEAN, home to approximately 650 million people, has taken steps to strengthen digital economies and cybersecurity collaboration. Teo mentioned that the member nations were the first regional group to fully adopt the United Nations’ standards in 2023, establishing guidelines for state behavior in cyberspace. The UN framework includes non-binding rules focused on cooperation to combat crime and terrorism while safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Additionally, ASEAN has agreed upon a framework for cross-border data sharing. At the ongoing meeting, ministers are discussing the potential benefits of AI for the public and strategies to combat scams that often transcend national borders.
Further details of these discussions will be disclosed on February 2, coinciding with the expected release of a guide for contracts between the European Union and ASEAN organizations. This guide aims to assist businesses operating in both regions in managing data exchange and contractual negotiations. Mrs. Teo highlighted the EU’s significant investment in ASEAN, with over $26.5 billion in 2021, making it the second-largest investor in the region.
The meeting will also witness the signing of a memorandum of understanding between ASEAN and China, focusing on promoting cross-border digital connectivity and cooperation in emerging technologies and cybersecurity.