What To Know
- This past week has been a whirlwind of activity across the Asia Pacific, and if there is one theme that stands out, it is the shift from speculative hype to grounded, human-centric pragmatism.
- Seeing Vietnam position itself as a global semiconductor hub—with Viettel’s first chip plant slated for completion later this year—is a clear signal that the region is no longer content being just a consumer of tech.
As we turn the calendar page to January 2026, I find myself reflecting on a fundamental truth: Technology is never just about the “bits and bytes.” It is about the “heart and soul” of the people who use it. This past week has been a whirlwind of activity across the Asia Pacific, and if there is one theme that stands out, it is the shift from speculative hype to grounded, human-centric pragmatism.
We are no longer just dreaming of a digital future; we are building the scaffolding to make it safe, sustainable, and inclusive. Here is my take on the defining developments from the first week of 2026.
ASEAN: The Regulatory Milestone
The new year began with a significant legal pivot in Malaysia. On January 1, 2026, the “Online Safety Act 2025” officially came into effect. This isn’t just another piece of legislation; it represents a bold commitment to digital trust. In conjunction with this, the “Deeming Provision” mandates the registration and regulation of major social media platforms with over eight million users. From where I sit, thisits implementationa necessary evolution. We cannot have a thriving digital economy without a safety net that protects the most vulnerable among us, particularly children, from the darker corners of the internet.
Furthermore, on December 30, 2025, reports confirmed that negotiations for the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) have reached a “substantial conclusion.” This is a massive US$2 trillion opportunity. By harmonizing digital trade rules and cybersecurity standards across the ten member states, ASEAN is effectively creating the world’s first region-wide digital economy pact. It’s a masterclass in regional collaboration, proving that when we align our standards, we multiply our potential.
AI with a Healing Touch
In Singapore, the focus remains steadfast on healthcare. This week, Synapxe, our national health-tech agency, provided a clear vision of how “Agentic AI” will redefine patient care in 2026. I am particularly impressed by the ASPIRE tool—an AI-enabled screening system for sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss) currently in its proof-of-concept phase.
Beyond screening, the integration of AI into chest X-ray diagnostics for tuberculosis at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases is a testament to how technology can augment human expertise. By automating the routine, we allow our healthcare professionals to focus on what they do best: providing empathy and complex care. It is a “less is more” philosophy in action—less administrative burden, more life-saving time.
Vietnam: The Strategic Masterstroke
Moving north to Vietnam, the government started the year with a powerful declaration. On January 1, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung signed on to a national program designed to master six strategic technology products by 2030, including semiconductors and advanced robotics.
Eight of Vietnam’s top tech firms have already stepped up to accept these “national missions.” This isn’t just about manufacturing; it’s about “Made in Vietnam” shifting from mastery to market leadership. Seeing Vietnam position itself as a global semiconductor hub—with Viettel’s first chip plant slated for completion later this year—is a clear signal that the region is no longer content being just a consumer of tech; we are becoming its architects.
Physical AI and New Skies
In the broader Asia Pacific, South Korea is making headlines as it prepares for the world’s largest tech showcase this week. Reports from January 2 indicate that Korea is sending its largest-ever pavilion to Las Vegas, with a specific focus on “Physical AI.”
Unlike the chatbots of 2024, physical AI is about the “brain” inside the machine—robotics, mobility, and industrial automation. Hyundai and Boston Dynamics have teased their “Partnering Human Progress” strategy, showcasing the next generation of the Atlas robot. This shift toward B2B AI—industrial tools that solve real labor shortages—is where the real value lies.
In aviation, the news is equally dynamic. On December 30, Thai Airways revised its flight schedules to debut its first Airbus A321neo. This new fleet isn’t just about capacity; it represents a push toward more fuel-efficient, sustainable regional travel. Meanwhile, AEROTHAI extended its 30% reduction in air navigation fees through January 5 to support the peak holiday travel surge. It’s a pragmatic move to keep the region connected during its most critical economic window.
The Human Connection
As I look at these developments—from Malaysia’s safety laws to Korea’s robotic co-workers—I am reminded of a principle I hold dear: technology should always serve the human spirit, not replace it. We are seeing a move away from “technology for technology’s sake” toward a more mature, governed, and purposeful era. The outlook is clear: Asia is not just participating in the tech race; we are setting the pace for a more responsible digital world.
Keep exploring, keep questioning, and above all, keep the human element at the center of your digital journey.
