Digital Economy Deal Set To Transform ASEAN Into Borderless Digital Marketplace - PM Anwar

By Nurunnasihah Ahmad Rashid

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 25 (Bernama) -- The landmark ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) is set the course to transform ASEAN into a borderless digital marketplace, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.

“One of the major achievements this year is the substantial progress made in the negotiations of the DEFA. Once implemented, the DEFA will set the course to transform ASEAN into a borderless digital marketplace,” he said at the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit 2025 here today.

His speech text was read out by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.

According to Anwar, Malaysia is also leading the ASEAN AI Safety Network (AI Safe) to ensure artificial intelligence is developed and applied responsibly, transparently, and ethically, across the region.

“At the same time, we are committed to ensuring that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), the backbone of ASEAN’s economy, are not left behind,” he said, adding that through regional programmes expanding access to digital tools, skills, and financing, ASEAN aim to help enterprises of every size thrive in this new digital era.

“Together, these efforts will shape a future where technology drives inclusion, innovation, and sustainable growth across our region,” he added.

-- BERNAMA