Southeast Asia’s digital growth and tech-savvy population are creating a strong environment for AI-driven progress. According to the AI Opportunity in Southeast Asia report, 70% of people in the region already use generative AI tools weekly, which could potentially add US$270 billion to the regional economy.

“Our focus is on supporting governments, businesses, and communities to turn this massive potential into shared success,” said Sapna Chadha, Vice President, Google Southeast Asia and South Asia Frontier.

At the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit (ABIS) 2025, Google announced new initiatives aimed at helping organizations across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) equip people with the AI skills needed for the AI-powered economy.

Accelerating Scientific Discovery with AlphaFold

AI is speeding up scientific research in the region. AlphaFold, developed by Google DeepMind, is helping more than 85,000 researchers model complex 3D protein structures.

In Malaysia, researchers are using AlphaFold to accelerate treatments and vaccines for melioidosis, a deadly disease caused by Burkholderia Pseudomallei. In Singapore, scientists are using the technology to detect early signs of Parkinson’s disease, supporting more proactive healthcare.

Promoting Sustainability and Climate Resilience

AI is also advancing sustainability. Google’s Agricultural APIs, created by the AnthroKrishi team, are expanding to Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. These models provide real-time insights on crop type, field size, water proximity, and last sow or harvest dates, helping farmers adapt to climate change.

To support clean energy planning, Google.org is providing US$1.5 million to TransitionZero, a climate analytics nonprofit. The AI-powered tool will make energy planning more cost-effective and accessible, starting with partnerships in Malaysia and Singapore.

Building AI Skills and Digital Wellbeing

Google is focusing on AI literacy and safety. The AI Ready ASEAN initiative, launched with the ASEAN Foundation in October 2024, has trained over 800,000 young people, educators, and parents. Its new platform, AI Class ASEAN, launched two months ago, already serves over 14,000 users.

To support digital well-being, Google.org has committed US$5 million to help teenagers, parents, and teachers develop healthy relationships with technology. Gemini Academy has trained more than 290,000 teachers across Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Students aged 18 and above can access the Gemini AI Pro Plan free for 12 months.

Continuing the AI Journey Across ASEAN

Since 2020, Google.org has supported social impact organizations in Southeast Asia with more than US$40 million in cash donations, US$80 million in product donations, and 20,000 volunteer hours, reaching nearly 4 million learners. These efforts have helped youth, educators, and MSMEs improve digital skills, cybersecurity, and AI literacy.

“By working closely with governments, businesses, and communities across ASEAN, we can build an AI ecosystem that is innovative, inclusive, and responsible,” said Chadha.

PHOTO: GOOGLE

This article was created with AI assistance.