Nikkei Asia · 16 Sep, 11:12 · Artificial Intelligence briefing

ASEAN faces uneven growth in AI era, DBS report warns

A recent DBS report highlights significant disparities in artificial intelligence adoption across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

A recent DBS report highlights significant disparities in artificial intelligence adoption across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The analysis suggests that while some member states are rapidly integrating AI technologies, others lag behind due to infrastructure gaps and skill shortages. This uneven trajectory threatens to widen economic divides within the region. The findings underscore the urgent need for coordinated policy responses and targeted workforce development to ensure equitable growth opportunities amidst the accelerating digital transformation.

Employer demand for AI Strategy skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

Every headline redistributes opportunity. Here is who this one rewards — and how to be on the right side of it.

You must recognise that regional AI adoption is not uniform, creating both risks and opportunities for your career. Professionals in slower-adopting economies face higher displacement risks if they ignore digital upskilling, while those in advanced hubs can leverage AI to amplify productivity. You should prioritise learning AI Strategy to understand organisational implementation and Data Science to handle the underlying analytics. Smart professionals will also cultivate adaptability, as roles evolve rapidly. Focus on bridging the digital divide by mastering tools that enhance cross-border collaboration. Do not wait for local infrastructure to catch up; proactively acquire skills that are globally transferable. This ensures you remain competitive regardless of your immediate geographic context.

For this story, the fields that convert it into pay are AI Strategy, Data Science, Business And Management and Artificial Intelligence — exactly the programmes matched below. The chart shows the indicative salary uplift certified professionals report in each of those fields; every one of them is a click away, from £79, finishing in as few as 20 days.

Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

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