AI Ready ASEAN: Empowering Southeast Asia Through Inclusive AI Literacy and Regional Collaboration

ASEAN Foundation Partners with Vero for AI Ready ASEAN Communications

The ASEAN Foundation has appointed Vero as its communications partner to lead media engagement for AI Ready ASEAN. This multi-year initiative focuses on advancing AI literacy across Southeast Asia, backed by a US$5 million grant from Google.org. Launched in 2024, the programme spans 2.5 years and aims to reach at least 5.5 million people across the region.

Targeting youth, educators, parents, and underserved communities, AI Ready ASEAN plans to provide in-depth AI training to around 800,000 participants. The initiative is structured around five key pillars:

• Training of trainers
• Advanced AI training
• Regional awareness campaign
• National and regional dialogues
• Research on AI development in ASEAN

Expanding Access through AI Class ASEAN

Earlier in 2024, the ASEAN Foundation launched AI Class ASEAN, an e-learning platform aimed at making AI education more accessible and sustainable throughout the region. This platform supports the broader goals of AI Ready ASEAN by providing scalable learning opportunities.

Vero’s Role in Regional Communications

As the ASEAN Foundation’s PR partner, Vero is responsible for strengthening the initiative’s visibility across all ten member states. Their approach focuses on a strategic communications plan and proactive media engagement to maximize reach and impact.

Piti Srisangnam, executive director of the ASEAN Foundation, highlighted that integrating AI technology into daily life will accelerate socioeconomic progress in Southeast Asia. The foundation’s mission is to equip ASEAN communities with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in an AI-driven economy.

Diah Andrini Dewi, executive account director at Vero, emphasized the importance of AI literacy and equitable adoption. She stated, “With AI evolving fast and transforming society, ensuring everyone can participate and benefit from AI innovation is essential. We are honoured to support the ASEAN Foundation in building an empowered society through inclusive learning.”

Early Success and Media Reach

Vero has already facilitated media engagement during the programme’s inaugural convention held in February. Their efforts secured coverage from leading media outlets across Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, enhancing the initiative’s regional presence.

Focus on Responsible AI Adoption

AI Ready ASEAN promotes responsible AI adoption guided by principles of ethics, fairness, transparency, and digital inclusion. The programme collaborates closely with local organisations in all ASEAN countries to ensure training materials are contextually relevant, culturally sensitive, and accessible.

This initiative supports the vision outlined in ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and references the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement to boost the region’s capacity for sustainable AI development.

What This Means for PR and Communications Professionals

For those working in PR and communications, this partnership highlights the critical role strategic media engagement plays in promoting large-scale educational initiatives. Crafting clear messaging that reaches diverse audiences across multiple countries requires coordinated efforts and cultural sensitivity.

Vero’s approach demonstrates how targeted campaigns and regional collaboration can amplify impact, especially when working with evolving topics like AI literacy. Monitoring coverage, managing stakeholder relations, and tailoring communication strategies to local contexts are key takeaways for similar projects.

As AI continues to influence economies and societies, communication professionals have an opportunity to shape public understanding and support equitable access to AI education and resources.