Economy
ASEAN launches AI initiative as Cambodia pushes stronger regional science cooperation
VIENTIANE, July 1, 2026 (KPT) – ASEAN has launched a US$1.2 million artificial intelligence initiative and approved sweeping reforms to its science and innovation governance, as Cambodia called for stronger regional cooperation to enhance resilience, competitiveness and sustainable development, officials said Tuesday.
The measures were endorsed during the 22nd ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology and Innovation (AMMSTI‑22), hosted by Laos under the theme “Advancing the ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology and Innovation 2026–2035.”
Representing Cambodia’s industry ministry, Undersecretary of State Hul Seingheng said cross‑border cooperation in science and technology was essential amid rapid technological change and global uncertainty.
“Science, technology and innovation are not merely tools for development but strategic catalysts for resilience, sustainability and long‑term competitiveness,” he told the meeting.
Cambodia proposed establishing a permanent STI ministers’ forum as a regular side event to future AMMSTI meetings, aimed at bringing together policymakers, industry leaders and academics to translate commitments into practical outcomes. Phnom Penh also highlighted its own initiatives, including a National Research Fund, a Technology Transfer Law and the Cambodia STI Roadmap 2030.
Ministers welcomed the launch of ASEAN’s first shared 4.2‑petaFLOPS supercomputing hub in Indonesia and approved reforms to streamline COSTI, reducing its technical subcommittees from nine to five to improve coordination and efficiency.
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