ASEAN Digital Community 2045 Country Perspectives

The rapid transformation of digital technologies is affecting each country differently, especially within the diverse economic landscape of the ASEAN region. Despite broadly similar development trajectories, digital readiness across ASEAN varies significantly – from Singapore, with its advanced digital infrastructure, to Lao PDR, where digital infrastructure remains limited. These varying stages of development necessitate differentiated policy frameworks to ensure efficient and optimised outcomes. Part II of the report explores the key challenges and opportunities that each ASEAN Member Country (AMC) faces in the digital era, alongside specific policy recommendations. AMCs with well-established digital infrastructure are now grappling with rising energy demands and the need to align growth with environmental sustainability. In contrast, most developing AMCs continue to face regulatory hurdles, intra-national infrastructure gaps, shortages of digital skills, and concerns around digital inclusiveness. Least developed AMCs are still in the early stages of building foundational infrastructure and regulatory systems to participate fully in the digital economy. This section provides a detailed overview of the current state of digitalisation in each AMC and identifies the specific obstacles they encounter. Based on this analysis, tailored policy recommendations are proposed to address the unique contexts and challenges of each country. These strategies not only support national progress but also offer transferable lessons and potential best practices for the wider ASEAN community. Through this collaborative approach, the report aims to contribute to a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful digital future for the entire region.