Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, outlined key priorities for strengthening ASEAN’s digital future during his pre-recorded remarks at the PROPEL – ASEAN Digital Leadership Forum and the official launch of the ASEAN CXO Association in Singapore.
The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, delivered pre-recorded remarks at the PROPEL – ASEAN Digital Leadership Forum and the Official Launch of the ASEAN CXO Association, held in Singapore on 7 July 2026. His address highlighted ASEAN’s vision for building a resilient, inclusive and sustainable digital economy by strengthening regional cooperation and accelerating digital transformation.
In his remarks, Dr. Kao emphasised the importance of fostering a trusted and secure digital ecosystem across Southeast Asia. He noted that closer cooperation on cybersecurity and stronger data governance frameworks are essential to building confidence in the region’s expanding digital landscape while supporting innovation and cross-border digital services.
The Secretary-General also underscored the need to integrate decarbonisation into ASEAN’s digital transformation agenda. He stressed that digital development and environmental sustainability should progress hand in hand, enabling the region to leverage technology while advancing its long-term climate and sustainable development objectives.
Recognising the growing demand for digital talent, Dr. Kao highlighted the importance of strengthening digital skills across the workforce, including among Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Enhancing digital capabilities, he said, will help businesses improve resilience, increase competitiveness and seize new opportunities in the digital economy.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Kao reaffirmed the importance of advancing interoperable digital infrastructure throughout ASEAN. Greater digital connectivity and seamless cross-border interoperability, he noted, will deepen regional integration, facilitate innovation and unlock the full potential of ASEAN’s rapidly expanding digital economy.
Source: The ASEAN Secretariat
