TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP), an autonomous postgraduate school of the National University of Singapore (NUS), has released a report on the strategy to accelerate digital transformation in the Southeast Asia region through the integration of 5G and artificial intelligence (AI).
The report titled "Leveraging 5G to Accelerate AI-Driven Transformation in ASEAN: Imperatives, Policy Insights, and Recommendations" reveals the economic potential worth US$130 billion, or around Rp2.1 trillion, that can be achieved by ASEAN countries if they can uniformly adopt 5G by 2030. But the development remains uneven, evident from the 5G penetration rate that has surpassed 48.3 percent in Singapore but less than 1 percent in several other ASEAN countries.
Professor Vu Minh Khuong from LKYSPP stated that the convergence of 5G and AI is the foundation for the development of smart manufacturing, precision agriculture, and autonomous mobility. "But ASEAN cannot afford to wait. The window for establishing regional leadership in intelligent connectivity is rapidly closing," he said in a written statement on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.
According to Khuong, this new research offers a blueprint that can be used to navigate AI and 5G integration by policymakers in ASEAN.
"To help the region move beyond incremental improvements toward transformative digital leadership," he added.
10 Key Steps for 5G-AI-based Digital Transformation
Based on a survey of more than 400 professionals in eight ASEAN countries, reinforced by interviews with several stakeholders, this study identifies ten key steps for 5G-AI-based digital transformation. One of the steps is to form coordinated digital leadership to address policy fragmentation in each country.
The report also emphasizes the importance of viewing 5G as a driver of AI, rather than just for communication technology. The LKYSPP academics also urge governments to promptly address the skills gap in the workforce, which currently impedes the adoption of new technologies in the industrial sector.
To strengthen policy direction, LKYSPP recommends five strategic priorities: formulating a national 5G-AI development strategy with a detailed road map by 2030, establishing a strong coordinating body within ASEAN and implementing visionary spectrum policies, building AI ecosystem through public-private collaboration, establishing a monitoring framework, and policy adjustment mechanisms.
Several case studies are also highlighted in this report. Singapore, for example, has successfully reduced latency by 50 percent through a 5G-based digital port. Thailand has implemented an AI-based disaster management system, while the wholesale network model in Malaysia has recorded a population coverage of 82 percent.
The research also mentions that private 5G networks are necessary to support the transformation of Industry 4.0, and Fixed Wireless Access could be a connectivity solution in remote areas.
Moreover, the current implementation of 5G is seen as a crucial stepping stone towards the anticipated 6G network that is expected to arrive in 2030.
The report also emphasizes that ASEAN has the opportunity to become a global leader in the 5G-AI integration. This technology has the potential to drive transformation in the manufacturing, agriculture, and education sectors—including providing access to immersive learning for students in underdeveloped regions.
The full report and its executive summary can be accessed through the official link provided by LKYSPP. These findings are expected to serve as policy guidance and a call to action for ASEAN institutions to leverage the digital momentum and build an inclusive future for the region's 700 million inhabitants.
Editor’s Choice: Trump Administration Launches Action Plan to Rival China in AI Dominance
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Cambodia and Thailand Accuse Each Other of Violating International Law
1 jam lalu
Military forces from Thailand and Cambodia clashed again in a disputed border area on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Trump Administration Launches Action Plan to Rival China in AI Dominance
2 jam lalu
Trump releases America's AI Action Plan to accelerate the U.S. dominance in artificial intelligence technology and to rival China's global influence.
10 Best Chinese Restaurants in Singapore Worth Visiting
3 jam lalu
From Cantonese feasts to Hakka comfort food, the best Chinese restaurants in Singapore promise a satisfied palate and a memorable journey.
Awaiting Gems: 10 New Attractions in Singapore in 2025
3 jam lalu
Eagerly awaited, some of the new attractions in Singapore promise to bring unforgettable experiences in 2025. Get ready for a year full of fun.
ASEAN Chair Contacts Thai and Cambodian PMs, Cites 'Worrying' Situation
5 jam lalu
The Chairman of ASEAN, Anwar Ibrahim, says Malaysia has contacted both leaders as tensions rise at the Thailand-Cambodia border.
Cambodian PM Urges UN Security Council to Intervene in Thai Military Strike
6 jam lalu
Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia urges the United Nations Security Council to take immediate action to address what he describes as Thailand's planned military aggression.
List of the World's Strongest Passports July 2025
9 jam lalu
Singapore remains in the top position for strongest passport with visa-free access to 193 countries. Indonesia maintains its previous ranking.
Where are the Best Places to Watch NDP Fireworks in Singapore? Here are the Top Spots
1 hari lalu
Discover the best places to watch NDP fireworks in Singapore which are both accessible and convenient at every corner of the city-state.
Rich People Who Buy Luxury Homes in Singapore
1 hari lalu
Recently, the grandchild of the founder of Sinar Mas reportedly purchased a luxurious house worth US$25 million in Singapore.
Singapore Police Ready to Assist Indonesia in Baby Trafficking Case
1 hari lalu
The Singapore Police Force (SPF) is prepared to collaborate with the Indonesian National Police in exposing the alleged baby trafficking syndicate.
