The ASEAN Foundation, with support from Google.org, launched the AI Ready ASEAN initiative at the AI Opportunity Southeast Asia Forum.
The $5-million program aims to equip 5.5 million ASEAN citizens with essential AI skills over the next 2.5 years. It will focus on enhancing AI literacy in all 10 member states through a train-the-trainer approach, a regional AI resource hub with localized content, and awareness campaigns.
“We are thrilled to launch the AI Ready ASEAN initiative,” said Dr. Piti Srisangnam, executive director of the ASEAN Foundation. “Enhancing AI literacy is not just about preparing our workforce, it’s about ensuring everyone has the tools to navigate the evolving technological landscape.”
The initiative will train 2,000 master trainers who will deliver in-depth AI literacy training to over 800,000 beneficiaries. The curriculum will be tailored to each country’s context through partnerships with local organizations.
AI Ready ASEAN aligns with the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement by equipping citizens with skills to drive regional digital transformation. It also follows the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics, ensuring responsible AI adoption.
The initiative builds on the success of the ASEAN Digital Literacy Program (2021-2024), which addressed misinformation with media and information literacy materials.
“Our $5 million grant underscores our commitment to ensure everyone can access AI skills,” said Marija Ralic, lead for Google.org, APAC. “We are excited to continue supporting the ASEAN Foundation to bridge the digital divide.”
Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, secretary-general of ASEAN, welcomed the initiative. “I commend the ASEAN Foundation and Google.org for their commitment to advancing digital skills,” he said. “This is an opportunity to transform the region into a robust digital economy.”
