The Malaysian Institute of Management (MIM), with support from Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Malaysia, convened a regional conference aimed at fostering closer ASEAN collaboration to strengthen the region’s digital economy through artificial intelligence (AI).
The event is part of the MIM Crucial Conversations Series. brought together policymakers, AI experts, industry leaders, as well as representatives from the National AI Office (NAIO) Malaysia and Microsoft, to address digital policy gaps and prepare regional leaders for the rapid growth of artificial intelligence.
Titled “AI & Regional Collaboration: Strengthening ASEAN’s Digital Economy,” the hybrid conference featured expert-led plenaries and breakout tracks on key issues such as AI governance, regulatory convergence, digital sovereignty, and the emerging digital economy.
MIM Chairman Datuk Zainal Amanshah Zainal Arshad emphasised the importance of collaborative leadership to navigate the evolving AI landscape.
There is a need for ASEAN nations to enhance digital readiness and policy coherence to ensure inclusive and responsible growth in the AI era,” he said in his opening speech.
Delivering the keynote address, Shamsul Izhan Abdul Majid, Head of NAIO, called for responsible and people-focused AI adoption across ASEAN. He also highlighted Malaysia’s efforts to advance clear guidelines and regional cooperation.
A key highlight of the conference was the launch of the MIM AI Leadership Certification Programme, which he officiated.
The programme offers a structured pathway for professionals to build the knowledge and confidence needed to lead responsibly in an AI-driven world.
As leadership evolves alongside technological disruption, decision-makers are expected not just to understand AI but to guide its ethical adoption and scale its impact across organisations.
Building on this, Kabenesh Eliathamby, MIM Chief Executive Officer, said, “AI is more than a tool; it’s a strategic imperative.
Its value lies in how leaders use it to elevate thinking, leadership, and impact. The future belongs to those who lead this transformation with purpose and courage”.
The event brought together local and international experts across two plenary sessions and industry-focused tracks, featuring speakers from NAIO, ISIS Malaysia, Microsoft, GX Bank, Ara Research AI, RiskAI Technologies GmbH, and the Cyfluence Research Centre in Germany.
Discussions covered topics ranging from ethical AI policy and ASEAN’s digital economy to real-world applications such as influence operations and the region’s AI-ready tech stack.
In closing, MIM Vice Chairman Azlan Abdullah reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to preparing leaders for an AI-powered future.
The MIM Crucial Conversations Series is an ongoing initiative by MIM that brings together experts, leaders, and stakeholders to discuss pressing and emerging issues affecting Malaysia and the region.
Through these dialogues, MIM fosters knowledge sharing, collaboration, and actionable insights to drive sustainable development and effective management practices.
For more information, visit their official website or contact them here.
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