Media OutReach
Malaysia and WEF Drive ASEAN’s Next Leap in AI Governance and Industrial Innovation
Powering the Intelligent Age Summit announced the ASEAN AI Safety Network and Sustainable AI White Paper, aligning regional collaboration with sustainability and trust
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 October 2025 – The Ministry of Digital, through the Malaysia Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (MYCentre4IR), in collaboration with the World Economic Forum (WEF), today hosted the Powering the Intelligent Age: Driving Innovation with Southeast Asia and Beyond Summit at Sasana Kijang. The event aimed to deepen collaboration on artificial intelligence (AI), digitalisation and clean industrial transformation. The event also marked a key milestone in Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, positioning the country as a convener of regional dialogue on technology governance and innovation, with a strong focus on digital transformation, and the region’s broader energy transition agenda.
The summit drew over 400 delegates from 14 countries and was attended by senior policymakers, corporate figures, researchers and startup founders. The wide representation from ASEAN’s digital and energy sectors, together with development partners and industry experts reflected strong collaboration across public, private and international sectors in advancing responsible and sustainable technology adoption across ASEAN.
A major highlight of the summit was the announcement on the ASEAN AI Safety Network (ASEAN AI Safe), a Priority Economic Deliverable for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship. Envisioned to be anchored in Kuala Lumpur, the Network connects policymakers, researchers and industry players to advance safe and inclusive AI adoption. The initiative forms part of Malaysia’s wider effort to position ASEAN as a globally trusted hub for responsible innovation and digital transformation.
YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital said, “Malaysia wants to become an AI Nation by 2030, supported by trusted governance, inclusive talent development and investments that drive real economic impact. As ASEAN Chair, we are focused on building collaborative frameworks that ensure technology is deployed safely, transparently and for the benefit of all communities. The ASEAN AI Safe marks an important step forward, but it is only one part of our broader mission to create an ecosystem where innovation and accountability move together.”
Reflecting these priorities, the summit’s agenda was designed to move from policy to implementation, focusing on practical collaboration and measurable outcomes. Discussions centred on establishing a common baseline for AI governance across ASEAN, aligning sustainability with technology adoption and accelerating industrial transformation through innovation partnerships. Another key milestone was the announcement of the Sustainable AI White Paper, developed in partnership between MYCentre4IR and ERM, in consultation with Microsoft , to guide responsible and energy-efficient AI deployment across the region.
A Leader’s Dialogue between YB Gobind Singh Deo and Cathy Li, Head of the Centre for AI Excellence and Executive Committee Member at the World Economic Forum, examined ASEAN’s framework for responsible AI development and discussed strategies to enhance the region’s access to AI capabilities in support of economic growth. The session focused on how regional collaboration can promote responsible AI, and build public trust in technology.
“The potential for successful transformation of Southeast Asia’s economy through AI is still largely untapped, and the region has a unique chance to shape the global AI standards of tomorrow”, said Cathy Li. “But this requires alignment across the region, to create a shared governance framework that fosters trust, transparency and sustainability into the fabric of innovation, and joint strategies for building sustainable and inclusive resilient AI ecosystems”.
The World Economic Forum is committed to supporting the region in realising a successful AI journey, by convening and partnering with Governments and all actors of the AI value chain.
The summit also featured a special address by Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Economic Community H.E. Satvinder Singh, who highlighted that regional collaboration is central to ensuring technology becomes a driver of shared prosperity and inclusion. He emphasised ASEAN’s role in developing policies that strengthen cross-border collaboration, support digital economy growth and build institutional readiness for the Intelligent Age.
At the industry level, the Transitioning Industrial Clusters (TIC) dialogue showcased how data platforms, advanced automation and clean-energy integration can help ASEAN industries strengthen competitiveness while reducing emissions. The summit’s focus on regional transition highlighted how ASEAN is aligning industrial policy, technology, and innovation to build a cleaner and more resilient future. Dialogue on cross-border green-electron trade under the ASEAN Power Grid, industrial decarbonisation and nuclear energy readiness reflected the region’s determination to strengthen energy security while advancing sustainability goals.
The summit highlighted the growing convergence between artificial intelligence and industrial sustainability as the drivers of ASEAN’s future competitiveness. It demonstrated how cross-border collaboration between governments, industry leaders, academia, and innovators is essential to harness technology responsibly while advancing shared regional goals. The Ministry of Digital is committed to ensuring that Malaysia’s national digital ambitions remain aligned with ASEAN’s themes of sustainability and inclusivity. The collaboration with industry and Microsoft as one of the trusted partners in establishing Malaysia as a sustainable digital hub and a secure location for digital assets across the region reflects the Ministry’s vision of a future where innovation, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility move in tandem – positioning ASEAN as a global hub for safe, trusted, and sustainable digital transformation.
Hashtag: #MyDIGITAL #WEF #MYCentre4IR
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About MyDIGITAL Corporation
MyDIGITAL Corporation is a monitoring agency and operates as a Strategic Change Management Office under the Ministry of Digital, overseeing the implementation of the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint (MDEB) and the National 4IR Policy. It serves as the secretariat to the National Digital Economy and 4IR Council, chaired by the Prime Minister, and hosts the Malaysia Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (MYCentre4IR) in collaboration with the World Economic Forum. MyDIGITAL Corporation is a dynamic platform aimed at accelerating the digital transformation and adoption of 4IR technologies and fostering innovation.
Website : 
MyDIGITAL Corporation | Follow us at 
Facebook | 
Instagram | 
LinkedIn | 
X
About World Economic Forum
The World Economic Forum (WEF) is the International Organisation for Public-Private Cooperation. It engages leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society to shape global, regional, and industry agendas. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the Forum is committed to improving the state of the world by fostering dialogue, driving systems change, and advancing solutions on critical global issues including energy transition, climate action, technology governance, and inclusive economic development.
About Malaysia Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (MYCentre4IR)
Hosted by MyDIGITAL Corporation, the Malaysia Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (MYCentre4IR) is part of the World Economic Forum (WEF) global network of Centre 4IR. It is the 1st centre in Southeast Asia and 19th in WEF’s global network of Centre for Fourth Industrial Revolution. It is a dynamic and forward-thinking platform designed to ignite innovation, facilitate policy development, and drive collaboration on a global scale. The partnership with the Forum provides access and connection to a vast pool of knowledge, best practices, and global insights from a network of like-minded organisations and countries, enabling learning and collaboration on cutting-edge projects.
Website : MYCentre4IR | Follow us at Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn
Media OutReach
Etiqa’s Project Firefly Reinforces Mangrove Ecosystem in Sungai Panjang in Collaboration with Malaysian Nature Society
Through Etiqa’s Project Firefly, Etiqa is taking proactive steps to preserve and sustain the ecosystem by planting 130 Sonneratia Caseolaris or locally known as Berembang saplings and 200 Sonneratia Caseolaris seeds, undertaking habitat restoration works, and mobilising 50 Etiqa volunteers for a community-driven initiative along Sungai Panjang, covering a total stretch of 10 kilometres. In addition, an awareness session was conducted by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Faculty of Science which aimed to educate participants on the ecological importance of fireflies and the need for long-term conservation.
Fireflies play an important role as indicators of mangrove ecosystem health, which in turn supports environmental balance and benefits surrounding communities. However, across Malaysia, firefly populations are declining due to rapid habitat loss caused by river pollution, deforestation, and increasing light pollution along mangrove-lined rivers. These threats not only endanger native species but also affect the livelihoods of local fishermen and villagers who rely on healthy river ecosystems and firefly-based eco-tourism. Protecting congregating firefly zones through the preservation of adequate vegetation buffers along riverbanks is therefore critical to ensuring the long-term survival of these species and the sustainability of local livelihoods.
Fukhairudin Mohd Yusof, CEO of Etiqa General Insurance Berhad (EGIB) said, “We initiated Etiqa’s Project Firefly as conserving native firefly species is deeply connected to the well-being of the communities that co-exist around them. By conserving firefly habitats, we are not only protecting an irreplaceable part of Malaysia’s biodiversity but also helping sustain the eco-tourism and river-based livelihoods of Sungai Panjang residents. This reflects Etiqa’s purpose in Making the World a Better Place that includes meaningful environmental action which strengthens both nature and society, creating long-term value for future generations.”
Mr. I.S Shanmugaraj, Executive Director of Malaysia Nature Society says, “Fireflies are natural indicators of a healthy mangrove ecosystem, and their presence reflects the overall condition of our rivers and surrounding environments. We commend Etiqa for taking proactive steps through Etiqa’s Project Firefly to address the growing threats of habitat degradation along fireflies corridor. Meaningful conservation requires collective action, and we hope this initiative will inspire more companies to collaborate with environmental organisations and local communities to protect biodiversity while supporting sustainable livelihoods for the long term.”Hashtag: #Etiqamy
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Etiqa
Etiqa is a multi-channel distributor of Insurance and Takaful products via its 10,000 agency force, 44 branches and 17 offices, over 490 bancassurance network (via Maybank branches, third-party banks, as well as co-operatives and brokers) through its presence in Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia and Cambodia.
In striving to make the world a better place, Etiqa’s Sustainability journey focuses on internal initiatives that reduces its carbon footprint and increases its social impact, as well as external solutions that allow its clients to do the same.
Media OutReach
PolyU research teams and startups shine at CES 2026, winning three prestigious innovation awards
Prof. Christopher CHAO, PolyU Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation), remarked, “PolyU is committed to nurturing innovative research talent with both national and international outlooks. We empower our teams by leading them to major international innovation events and fostering close collaboration among industry, academia, research and investment sectors on a global level, creating opportunities for the overseas expansion of PolyU startups. PolyU was the sole university from Hong Kong to exhibit at the event, with its participating teams making up 30% of the Hong Kong delegation, contributing to Hong Kong’s advancement into an international innovation and technology hub. Our record-breaking performance at this year’s CES affirms international recognition of PolyU research and innovation, propelling our teams to continue striving along the path of innovation and technology to create even more profound social impact.”
Leveraging its robust research strengths and its unique startup ecosystem, PolyVentures, the University actively supports its research teams and startups in developing innovative technologies, bringing Hong Kong research achievements to the global stage. The Smart Firefighting Robot, developed by Mr WANG Meng, a PhD candidate of the Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering as well as Founder of PolyU startup Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited, along with his team, achieved the highest score in the “Products in Support of Human Security for All” category and earned the prestigious “Best of Innovation Award”. The Powered Rehab Skateboard, developed by Prof. Kenneth FONG, Associate Dean of the Graduate School and Associate Head of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, received an “Innovation Award” in the “Accessibility and Longevity” category. The FattaLab® Fatty Liver Diagnostic Device, developed by a team spearheaded by Prof. ZHENG Yongping, Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering, Chair Professor of Biomedical Engineering, and Founder and Chief Scientist of PolyU startup Eieling Technology Limited, also won an “Innovation Award” in the “Digital Health” category.
The three award-winning innovations aim to enhance human security or health through cutting-edge technologies. The AI-driven Smart Firefighting Robot features autonomous patrol, burning materials classification, fire extinguishing and real-time data sharing functions in smoke-filled environments, protecting firefighters and the public simultaneously. The Powered Rehab Skateboard is a portable and cost-effective robotic system that supports home-based and community rehabilitation for stroke patients. The skateboard facilitates motor recovery in hemiparetic upper limbs and allows users to engage in effective therapy. The FattaLab® Fatty Liver Diagnostic Device is the world’s first lightweight intelligent assessment system for fatty liver detection. Weighs only 120 grams, the device can complete fatty liver assessment within 30 seconds, achieving detection accuracy at medical-grade standards.
Organised by the Consumer Technology Association, CES is one of the world’s largest and most influential consumer electronics exhibitions, spotlighting cutting-edge technologies for modern living. This year, CES attracted over 4,500 exhibitors from around the globe. The PolyU startups participating in the exhibition were as follows:
| PolyU Startups | Featured Innovations | Company Representatives |
| AniMed Technology Limited | Contactless real-time AI-driven health monitoring | Dr LYU Weimin Co-founder and CEO, AniMed Technology Limited |
| CyanSE Smart Energy Tech Limited | AI-powered energy optimisation platforms for smart buildings | Ms Amber ZHANG Co-founder, CyanSE Smart Energy Tech Limited |
| DRESIO Limited | AI-powered physiotherapy assessments software solution | Mr Alexander YING CEO, DRESIO Limited |
| Eieling Technology Limited | FattaLab® Fatty Liver Diagnostic Device (CES 2026 Innovation Award) |
Prof. ZHENG Yongping Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering, Chair Professor of Biomedical Engineering, PolyU; Founder and Chief Scientist, Eieling Technology Limited |
| Entoptica Limited | Cutting-edge ophthalmic diagnostic technologies | Dr Mukhit KULMAGANBETOV Senior Research Fellow, InnoHK Centre for Eye and Vision Research; CEO, Entoptica Limited |
| Feelings Group Limited | AI-powered computer vision solution | Dr WONG Wing-sze Research Assistant Professor, Department of Language Science and Technology, PolyU; Clinical Consultant and Co-inventor, Feelings Group Limited Ms YIP Chi-hay |
| Gembody Limited | Next-generation portable AI ultrasound system | Ms MAO Qian CEO, Gembody Limited Dr YANG Fan CTO, Gembody Limited |
| ImageVector MedTech Limited | AI-Vision for Joint Degeneration
|
Dr JIANG Tianshu
Executive Director, ImageVector MedTech Limited |
| Immune Materials Limited | Innovative long-lasting antimicrobial self-disinfection materials | Prof. Chris LO Kwan-yu Professor, Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, PolyU; Co-founder, Immune Materials Limited Prof. KAN Chi-wai |
| Innobound Limited | Portable smart terminal for emotional interaction, health monitoring and daily living assistance | Ms GAO Lan CEO and Founder, Innobound Limited |
| MedVision Limited | AI-powered medical imaging solution | Prof. CAI Jing Head and Professor, Department of Health Technology and Informatics, PolyU; Consultant, MedVision Limited Dr MA Zongrui |
| Mirror Caring Limited | Knee health management solution | Prof. Stephen WANG Jia Professor, School of Design, PolyU; Founder, Mirror Caring Limited |
| Nuvatech Limited | Next-Gen Fashion OS powered by Multi-modal AI | Mr DENG Yanheng Founder, Nuvatech Limited |
| On-Skin Wearable Technology Limited | Wearable Biomedical Electronic Device | Dr Rayman GONG Founder and CEO, On-Skin Wearable Technology Limited |
| ReSaTech Limited | AI solutions for product reliability | Mr Ricky LAW CEO, ReSaTech Limited |
| UbiquiTech Innovations Limited | Edge-AI robot for autonomous inspection and cleaning in confined spaces | Prof. CAO Jiannong Vice President (Education), Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Professor in Data Science, Chair Professor of Distributed and Mobile Computing, PolyU; Founder and Chief Scientist, UbiquiTech Innovations Limited Dr LIANG Zhixuan |
| Vcare Vision Technology Limited | Non-invasive myopia prevention solution | Dr TANG Yuk-ming Senior Lecturer, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, PolyU; Co-founder, Vcare Vision Technology Limited |
| Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited | Smart Firefighting Robot
(CES 2026 Best of Innovation Award) |
Mr WANG Meng PhD candidate, Building Environment and Energy Engineering, PolyU; Founder, Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited |
| XOXO Beverages Limited | Automated Cocktail Machine for improvements event and hospitality efficiency | Mr Nicholas YU Wo-ping Founder, XOXO Beverages Limited |
Hashtag: #PolyU
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
Starlight Centre Launches New Program For Students with Autism Entering Mainstream Primary Schools.
Peer Modeling
Starlight Centre has provided specialised care services for children with high-functioning autism from primary 1 to 6 and have supported many students who are now ready to demonstrate positive behaviours from the programmes. Through peer modelling, younger students can observe and learn from their more experienced peers, helping them understand the acceptable boundaries of good behaviour.
RISE™
The Starlight RISE™ Primary School Readiness Program effectively prepares young children for formal education by developing their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive skills through engaging, play-based activities.
By actively involving parents in the process through comprehensive evaluations and strong partnerships, Starlight Centre aims to make parents feel valued and confident that their child’s development is being supported holistically, beyond just basic skills.
Hashtag: #AutismEducation #SpecialNeedsEducation #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ParentingSupport #StarlightCentre
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Starlight Centre
Starlight was founded by a group of parents and seasoned autism professionals who have experienced first-hand the challenges of finding the most effective therapy programs, preschools, and after-school care services. We understand what you’re going through and are here to help. No matter your child’s needs, come to us, and we will connect you with the right resources.
-
Feature/OPED6 years agoDavos was Different this year
-
Travel/Tourism9 years ago
Lagos Seals Western Lodge Hotel In Ikorodu
-
Showbiz3 years agoEstranged Lover Releases Videos of Empress Njamah Bathing
-
Banking8 years agoSort Codes of GTBank Branches in Nigeria
-
Economy3 years agoSubsidy Removal: CNG at N130 Per Litre Cheaper Than Petrol—IPMAN
-
Banking3 years agoFirst Bank Announces Planned Downtime
-
Banking3 years agoSort Codes of UBA Branches in Nigeria
-
Sports3 years agoHighest Paid Nigerian Footballer – How Much Do Nigerian Footballers Earn