Brunei Crown Prince urges stronger Asean unity amid rapid tech disruption
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah Hassanal Bolkiah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, on Wednesday (May 7) called for deeper regional collaboration to address the fast-evolving digital landscape and the disruptive impact of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence.
In a speech at the official opening of the 17th Conference of Asean Ministers Responsible for Information (AMRI) at the Indera Samudera Grand Hall, The Empire Brunei, the prince underscored the urgent need for Asean to keep pace with technological advancements, while safeguarding the integrity and inclusivity of the region's shared digital future.
'As we move further into the digital age, with some of our nations even leading the charge in innovation, a high literacy rate is essential. It empowers our people to navigate and harness the digital space effectively,' he said.
While the digital shift brings opportunities for growth and innovation, it also poses complex challenges.
The prince noted the rise of Artificial Intelligence as one such development that adds layers of difficulty to the already dynamic information landscape, making it crucial for the Asean information sector to evolve in step with these changes.
'I am encouraged to see AMRI collaborating with other sectors to proactively address these issues. This cross-sectoral approach is essential in ensuring that our region not only keeps pace with digital transformation but also safeguards the security and resilience of our digital environment,' he said.
Under the theme 'Media Advancing Joint Understanding' or Maju, the 17th AMRI brings together information ministers, senior officials, and dialogue partners from across Asean and beyond, to explore strategies for promoting media as a unifying force in the region.
In his speech, the prince also expressed support for Malaysia's Asean chairmanship this year under the theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability', noting it reflects the region's ongoing efforts to strengthen unity while confronting external pressures and global uncertainty.
Looking ahead to the Asean Community Vision 2045, which is expected to be adopted at the upcoming 46th Asean Summit, the prince stressed that the success of the Vision depends on effective public communication.
'It must be transformed from merely a policy framework into a shared aspiration embraced by all,' he said.
Brunei Darussalam's digital transformation journey was also highlighted. His Royal Highness noted that the nation was among the first Asean member states to complete its 'Analogue Switch Off' in 2017, marking a milestone toward a fully digital broadcasting era.
The prince commended the Asean information sector for its contributions to regional literacy and integration since AMRI's inception in 1989, particularly in fostering peace, stability, and unity across South-East Asia.
'His Majesty's Government remains committed to enhancing cooperation and making meaningful contributions to build regional resilience and prepare for future shocks,' he added.
The 17th AMRI was attended by ministers and officials from all 10 Asean member states, Asean Plus Three dialogue partners – China, Japan and South Korea – as well as Timor-Leste. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Malaysiakini
an hour ago
- Malaysiakini
Farce of Nobel Prize nominations
COMMENT | Cambodia has reportedly nominated US President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for brokering the peace accord between Thailand and Cambodia. Some in the country argue it is unfair to only nominate Trump, given that Malaysia, as Asean chair, played a pivotal role in the ceasefire leading to the peace accord.
The Sun
3 hours ago
- The Sun
Darwin Nunez completes move from Liverpool to Saudi's Al-Hilal
LIVERPOOL have confirmed the departure of striker Darwin Nunez to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in a deal worth an initial 53 million euros. The move could enable the Premier League champions to pursue Newcastle United's Alexander Isak as a replacement. Nunez arrived at Anfield three years ago from Benfica for a fee of 75 million euros but struggled to consistently justify his price tag. The Uruguayan international netted 40 goals in 143 appearances but gradually lost his starting role under managers Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot. Al-Hilal announced the signing in an official statement. 'Al-Hilal Club Company is pleased to announce the signing of Uruguayan striker Darwin Nunez from Liverpool FC on a three-year contract.' The 26-year-old faced increased competition following Liverpool's summer signings, including Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz, part of a 300 million euro spending spree. His departure raises speculation that Liverpool may intensify efforts to sign Newcastle's Isak after an initial £110 million bid was rejected. Newcastle are reportedly holding out for up to £150 million for the Swedish forward. Nunez's sale brings Liverpool's total transfer income this window close to 200 million euros, following exits including Luis Diaz and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Al-Hilal continue to strengthen their squad with high-profile signings. The Saudi club, managed by Simone Inzaghi, already boasts talents like Ruben Neves, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Aleksandar Mitrovic. Their recent Club World Cup run included a shock victory over Manchester City. – AFP
The Star
3 hours ago
- The Star
Zafrul: Rules-based trading system vital for today
OSAKA: Asean's strong position and principles of centrality and multilateralism must be reinforced in facing geopolitical and geoeconomic challenges, says Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz ( pic ). The Investment, Trade and Industry Minister said a rules-based trading system is important for Asean, especially in today's scenario, where things are uncertain when it comes to trade. 'Given the geopolitical tension and geoeconomic challenges that we face today, trade diversification is an important strategy, and focus,' he said at the Asean Day celebration held on the sidelines of the World Expo 2025 here. Tengku Zafrul said Asean, among others, has decided to upgrade the Asean trade and goods agreement to strengthen economic cooperation. 'When people are challenging the current economic order, we feel that we should double down on strengthening the principles of multilateralism. In fact, we are looking at new areas of cooperation in trade, where we are probably going to be the first bloc to sign a digital economy framework agreement,' he said. Tengku Zafrul also said that it is important for Asean to focus on sustainable growth for the region, particularly in terms of gross domestic product and in markets to expand trade and investment. 'We want growth to be inclusive, and equitable. In light of what's happening globally, we also want the growth to be resilient,' he added. Tengku Zafrul said the World Expo 2025 in Osaka offers a timely platform for Asean to showcase not just its identity but also its diversity and unity to the global community. 'We look forward to welcoming Japan to the Asean Economic Ministers' Meeting in September and to the Asean Leaders' Summit in October. I believe that through constant dialogue we build trust, and that trust will build a much better Asean and a much better Asia for our future generations,' he said. Asean Economic Community deputy secretary-general Satvinder Singh said Asean has expressed its readiness to upgrade its free trade agreement (FTA) with Japan, signalling a desire to bring the decades-old pact into the modern economic era. He said there is a growing urgency and opportunity to refresh the Asean-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership signed in 2008 in line with new economic realities. He highlighted Asean's recent achievements in modernising economic agreements with China, Australia, New Zealand, and India, which now include new components such as e-commerce, innovation, global supply chain resilience, and sustainability. 'Clearly, Japan should also be one of the priorities for Asean in the coming years. On the Asean side, we are ready to engage with Japan when it is ready,' he added.
