Thailand Spearheads ASEAN’s Digital Future: Combating Online Scams and Strengthening Cybersecurity at the 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting

Bangkok, Thailand – The 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting (ADGMIN) concluded in Bangkok on January 17, 2025, marking a significant step towards a secure and sustainable digital future for the region. Chaired by Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Mr. Prasert Chantrarawongthong, the meeting brought together representatives from all ASEAN member states and dialogue partners.

Mr. Prasert emphasized the meeting’s role as a critical platform for reinforcing digital cooperation within ASEAN. The discussions focused on establishing a robust digital economy and society, with key issues addressed and endorsed, including combating online scams, enhancing cybersecurity, promoting responsible AI development, and ensuring seamless digital connectivity.

Combating the Rise of Online Scams

The meeting acknowledged the escalating threat of online scams, particularly those originating from neighboring countries. The ASEAN Online Scam Survey Report (2023–2024) was approved, providing a framework for national and regional action plans. Cross-sector collaboration was identified as crucial in addressing scams such as phone fraud and financial deception through social media, often linked to perpetrators in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos.

To combat this growing menace, the meeting emphasized the importance of:

• Information Exchange: Facilitating the seamless exchange of information between member states to track and apprehend scammers operating across borders.
• Capacity Building: Enhancing the capabilities of border officials to detect and prevent online scams.
• Early Warning System: Developing a joint early warning system to alert ASEAN nations about emerging scam trends and mitigate their impact.

Bolstering Cybersecurity across the Region

Recognizing the critical role of cybersecurity in the digital age, the meeting addressed several key aspects:

• ASEAN CERT: Acknowledged the establishment of the ASEAN Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) in Singapore, a central hub for coordinating cybersecurity efforts.
• Cybersecurity Standards: Endorsed the ASEAN Checklist on Cyberspace Norms to establish robust cybersecurity standards across the region, minimizing risks from cyberattacks that could disrupt economic stability and public safety.
• Incident Response: Supported the formation of dedicated coordination units to ensure swift response to cyber incidents.

Fostering a Thriving Digital Economy

The meeting explored strategies to accelerate digital transformation and drive economic growth in the region. Key focus areas included:

• ASEAN DEFA: Expressed support for developing the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) to enhance cooperation in cybersecurity and online scam prevention.
• Digital Investment: Discussed ways to promote investment in digital startups and cutting-edge technologies to stimulate economic development.

Promoting Responsible AI Development

With the rise of artificial intelligence, the meeting emphasized the importance of responsible AI development and data governance. Key initiatives included:

• AI Governance: Approved the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Action Plan and AI governance documents, including frameworks for Generative AI, to ensure transparency, accountability, and personal data protection in AI development.
• AI Innovation: Committed to driving research and development of AI innovations that cater to the specific needs of the ASEAN region.

Ensuring Seamless Digital Connectivity

The meeting acknowledged the progress made in 5G deployment and addressed challenges related to connectivity:

• Reducing Service Fees: Discussed strategies to reduce cross-border service fees, promoting affordability and accessibility.
• SIM Card Regulation: Highlighted the need for robust SIM card registration to prevent their misuse in cross-border scams, a significant concern in border areas with high population movement.

Bangkok Digital Declaration: Charting ASEAN’s Digital Future

The meeting culminated in the adoption of the Bangkok Digital Declaration, a roadmap for ASEAN’s digital future. The declaration prioritizes:

• Security: Strengthening cybersecurity measures and combating online threats to create a safe and trustworthy digital environment.
• Connectivity: Promoting seamless digital connectivity across the region, bridging the digital divide.
• Inclusivity: Expanding access to digital technology in rural and remote areas, ensuring equal opportunities for all.

Strengthening International Collaboration

The meeting also facilitated discussions with dialogue partners, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, the United States, and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), to foster global cooperation in combating online scams, developing cybersecurity best practices, and promoting human resource development in the digital domain.

Bilateral Agreements: Deepening Regional Cooperation

In a significant development, Thailand signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with Cambodia and the Philippines, further solidifying regional digital cooperation.

• Thailand-Cambodia MOU: Focuses on strengthening collaboration in digital platform services, e-government initiatives, digital transformation, digital workforce development, online safety, and scam prevention.
• Thailand-Philippines MOU: Promotes cooperation in digital infrastructure investment, e-government strategies, AI utilization, digital identity verification, emerging technologies, and cybersecurity through knowledge exchange and joint training.

The Road Ahead

The 6th ADGMIN, scheduled to be held in Vietnam in 2026, will continue the momentum towards a strong and sustainable digital ASEAN. The meeting underscored the commitment of member states to collaborative action in building a secure, innovative, and inclusive digital future for the region.

–IT CITY Teams Up with AIS for Growth in 2025

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