MANILA: Asean must accelerate its digital transformation by fully leveraging the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) to strengthen regional economic integration and drive sustainable growth.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this was in line with the Asean Community Vision 2045, which sets out a vision for stronger regional integration, robust institutions and sustainable growth that benefits all segments of society.
Malaysia therefore welcomed the historic signing of DEFA, which has the potential to help Asean double the size of its regional digital economy to US$2 trillion by 2030.
However, Anwar said, the development and governance of artificial intelligence (AI), which is increasingly shaping the global economic and security landscape, should not be monopolised by a handful of global technology giants for commercial interests.
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“In this regard, we must collectively strengthen our technological capabilities, protect data sovereignty and establish a robust governance framework to ensure transparency and accountability,” he said during the plenary session of the 49th Asean Summit.
He said DEFA could open up more opportunities for digital trade and investment, including for Malaysia, while strengthening the country’s position in the regional economy.
In 2025, the information and communications technology and e-commerce sectors accounted for 23.5 per cent or RM476.8 billion of Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP).