Have you ever witnessed a moment that could reshape an entire region’s technological future? The First ASEAN-China Artificial Intelligence Conference, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, represents exactly that kind of pivotal moment—bringing together over 300 distinguished leaders to chart the course for regional AI collaboration.
ASEAN-China Artificial Intelligence Conference Charts New Course for Regional Innovation
On September 11, 2025, history was made in Kuala Lumpur as the inaugural ASEAN-China Artificial Intelligence Conference opened its doors. Meanwhile, the joint effort between the Institute of Engineering and Management Training Academy (IEMTA) and Kuala Lumpur University of Science and Technology (KLUST) created an unprecedented platform for technological dialogue.
Themed “Intelligence, Inclusivity, and Sustainability: AI Driving Regional Innovation and High-Quality Development,” the two-day event attracted an impressive roster of participants. As a result, senior government officials from China and Malaysia, global corporate leaders, industry experts, policy advisors, innovation pioneers, and academic community members gathered under one roof to explore AI’s transformative potential.
High-Level Leadership Sets the Vision
The opening ceremony delivered powerful insights from key regional leaders. For instance, Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Communications, YB Puan Teo Nie Ching, emphasized her country’s unwavering commitment to strengthening research, design, and innovation in artificial intelligence. She highlighted how next-generation technologies are reshaping social development while creating new challenges in digital governance.
Notably, she cited the Artificial Intelligence Fast-Check Assistant (AIFA) as a pioneering innovation in information verification. This groundbreaking tool offers a robust model for building a secure and trustworthy digital ecosystem, demonstrating practical applications of AI in governance.
Similarly, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Malaysia, Mr. Zheng Xuefang, reinforced the strategic importance of the gathering. He affirmed that AI has emerged as a central driver of regional innovation and high-quality development, while commending the conference as a pivotal platform for transnational cooperation and knowledge exchange.
Recognition for Educational Excellence
During the proceedings, a significant milestone was reached when Professor Chen Xiaoyun, Chairman of KLUST’s Board of Directors and Chairman of Star Teenagers International Group, received the Outstanding Contribution Award for ASEAN–China International Educational Cooperation and Cultural Exchange. The award citation recognized his enduring contributions to fostering educational innovation, cultural exchange, youth talent development, and regional cooperation in AI.
As a result of his leadership, new platforms for mutual learning and collaborative growth have been established for both students and educators across the region. This recognition underscores the critical role that educational institutions play in advancing AI education and research initiatives throughout ASEAN.
Practical AI Applications Take Center Stage
KLUST President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ts. Dr. David Ngo Chek Ling, brought the discussion down to earth with real-world examples. He emphasized that AI has become deeply embedded in daily life, from autonomous mobility solutions to AI-enabled pedagogical innovations. For example, he cited AI-powered taxi services in Wuhan and digital innovations at DBS Bank as concrete illustrations of how artificial intelligence is strengthening enterprise capabilities and service delivery.
“The intrinsic value of AI lies not in replacing human capabilities, but in fostering effective human–machine collaboration. AI development must remain grounded in the principle of serving humanity to ensure a human-centered and ethically responsible intelligent society.”
Strategic Partnerships Forge the Future
The conference culminated in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between KLUST and prominent organizations. These partnerships span diverse sectors, including the Machinery & Engineering Industries Federation (MEIF), ASEAN Engineering Inspector for Mechanical & Manufacturing (AEI-MM), Malaysia Association of Sustainable Supply Chain & Innovation (MASSCI), and the Artificial Intelligence International Institute (AIII).
Moreover, additional agreements were established with ISoftStone Education, ASEAN Federation of Smart Industry, Academy of Engineering & Technology of the Developing World, Intrisic SEA, and MSM International Ltd. These collaborations reaffirm KLUST’s commitment to advancing cross-border cooperation and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise.
Building Tomorrow’s AI Talent Pipeline
Looking ahead, KLUST is strategically positioning itself at the forefront of AI education through ambitious new initiatives. The university is introducing advanced doctoral programs in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science, as well as Intelligent Systems and Smart Manufacturing. These programs aim to cultivate world-class AI talent and position Malaysia as a regional hub for AI education and innovation.
Furthermore, building on the momentum of this landmark conference, KLUST plans to deepen collaborative research with China and ASEAN member states. This approach aligns with broader regional goals of advancing the AI ecosystem toward a new era of excellence and sustainable technological development.
The First ASEAN-China Artificial Intelligence Conference has set a remarkable precedent for regional collaboration in the digital age. Through substantive exchanges on emerging trends, strategic perspectives, and innovative applications, participants have laid the groundwork for a more connected and intelligent future. As these partnerships unfold and new educational programs take shape, the region stands poised to become a global leader in responsible AI development—one that truly serves humanity’s best interests.
