The Digital and Intelligent APAC Congress 2024, a joint initiative by Huawei and the ASEAN Foundation, convened in Bangkok with over 2,000 participants from 15 Asia-Pacific countries and regions. The congress served as a platform for discussing the deployment of cutting-edge digital and intelligent infrastructure, aimed at building a transformative future for the Asia-Pacific region.

The Digital and Intelligent APAC Congress 2024 provided a platform for stakeholders to explore the vast potential of digital technologies in driving regional progress. With over 2.4 billion internet users and a digital transformation market valued at USD 695 billion in 2023, the Asia-Pacific region is poised for significant growth and innovation.

Within the ASEAN context, digital transformation is crucial for addressing pressing challenges and capitalising on opportunities across various sectors. The event highlighted several key benefits, including driving digital innovation in businesses, expanding into new markets, promoting inclusive growth, and fostering regional integration and connectivity.

Guiding these efforts are the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025 and the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement, which aim to bridge the digital divide and empower citizens with the necessary skills and resources to thrive in the digital age.

The keynote speakers, including Ms. Sabrina Meng, Deputy Chairwoman of the Board and CFO of Huawei, Mr. Simon Lin, President of Huawei Asia-Pacific Region, H.E. Prasert Jantararuangtong, Minister of Digital Economy and Society of Thailand, and H.E. Nararya S. Soeprapto, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for Community and Corporate Affairs, emphasised the importance of collective effort and shared vision in achieving digitally intelligent ASEAN and the Asia-Pacific region.

The speakers' messages were unified, emphasising that digital transformation cannot be traversed alone and requires a guiding principle that unites governments, industry leaders, academia, and civil society in pursuit of progress.

Special appreciation was extended to the leaders present for sharing their achievements, success stories, and challenges in their digital transformation journeys. A particular note of thanks was given to Huawei for facilitating the forum, fostering collaboration, and inspiring innovation across the region.

The Digital and Intelligent APAC Congress 2024 continues to serve as a crucial platform for stakeholders to exchange valuable insights and forge partnerships that will shape the future of digital transformation in the Asia-Pacific region.