Leaders Push for Digital Sustainability and Cybersecurity Collaboration at ASEAN CIO Forum 2024

MANILA, Philippines, September 24, 2024 – The 8th ASEAN CIO Forum, held on September 18 and 19 in Manila, brought together leaders and experts from across the region to discuss the critical intersection of technology, cybersecurity, and sustainability. Themed “Empowering C-Suites: Pioneering ASEAN’s Sustainable Digital Future with AI, Cybersecurity, and Green Innovation,” the forum emphasized collaborative efforts to drive digital transformation while addressing the growing need for secure and sustainable solutions.

In his opening address, President Ng Hoo Ming stressed the importance of regional cooperation in driving innovation and sustainability. “We must not only strive to preserve our rich culture and heritage but also protect our environment as we pursue technological advancements. Achieving this balance will allow ASEAN to transition smoothly into a prosperous and sustainable digital future,” he stated.

Key topics discussed during the forum included the transformative potential of AI, blockchain, and robotics, the need for robust cybersecurity frameworks, and the growing importance of green innovation in digital strategies. President Ng highlighted these elements as pillars for ASEAN’s future growth, noting that digital transformation and leadership are crucial for guiding organizations through rapid technological changes.

Underscoring the urgency of addressing cyber threats, Benjamin Goh, Senior Vice President at ST Engineering, delivered a compelling keynote on the importance of cybersecurity for ASEAN’s digital landscape. “AI-powered solutions can augment human expertise in Security Operations Centers, boosting anomaly detection and strengthening defense mechanisms,” Goh explained. He further emphasized ST Engineering’s commitment to working with ASEAN nations, particularly the Philippines, to bolster cybersecurity infrastructure and combat fraud and scams.

The forum also provided a platform for Secretary Atty. Ivan John Uy from the Philippines’ Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) to reaffirm the nation’s dedication to the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025. He stressed the importance of accelerating digital growth and leveraging innovation for economic recovery, noting, “ASEAN’s digital economy has the potential to reach $1 trillion by 2030, and we must align our policies to promote cross-border e-commerce and enhance cybersecurity to realize this potential.”

Speakers from various ASEAN nations shared insights on how their countries are advancing in the digital realm. H.E. Sok Puthywuth, Secretary of State for Cambodia’s Ministry of Post and Telecommunications, outlined his nation’s commitment to the Digital Economy and Society Policy Framework 2021-2035, aimed at transforming Cambodia into a high-income country by 2050. He urged ASEAN member states to collaborate more deeply on capital flow, technology exchange, and educational partnerships to ensure regional prosperity.

Beyond cybersecurity and AI, sustainability was a core theme throughout the discussions. Toh Seong Wah, CEO of Energy Market Company, highlighted the importance of integrating advanced technologies into energy and infrastructure sectors. “District cooling systems, like Singapore’s Marina Bay network, are pivotal examples of how technology can help reduce carbon emissions and support sustainable growth,” Toh remarked.

The two-day forum concluded with a call to action from President Ng Hoo Ming, urging ASEAN leaders to continue working together to shape a digital future that is both inclusive and sustainable. He expressed gratitude to government officials, sponsors, and strategic partners for their contributions to the success of the forum and emphasized the need for continued collaboration across industries and borders.

The 8th ASEAN CIO Forum exemplified the region’s commitment to leveraging technology for sustainable growth while fostering stronger cybersecurity frameworks to combat emerging digital threats. The discussions held in Manila underscored the importance of unity, innovation, and regional cooperation in achieving a secure and sustainable digital future for ASEAN. The 9th ASEA CIO Forum in 2025 will be hosted in Singapore.