3 Before 9: February 13, 2026

Singapore to launch national AI council for strategic direction

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced the establishment of a National AI Council to guide the country’s AI development, emphasising scaling AI use, ensuring beneficial outcomes and acting with clarity on national priorities.

Why it matters for Asia

formalising strategic oversight reflects a shift from experimentation to structured governance and implementation, strengthening Singapore’s leadership in Asia’s AI ecosystem.

ASEAN report finds region eager for AI but lacking guidance

A new ASEAN Foundation-supported report shows Southeast Asian institutions and educators are eager to adopt AI, but lack coherent guidance frameworks and governance expertise to manage risks and opportunities effectively.

Why it matters for Asia

gaps in AI policy, education and institutional readiness could slow responsible AI adoption across ASEAN, even as private interest grows, highlighting a need for governance capacity building.

US pushes AI funding, fisheries tech at APEC amid China rivalry

At the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in China, the United States advanced initiatives to bolster US influence in AI and maritime technology, including a US$20 million fund to promote AI tech adoption in the region.

Why it matters for Asia

APEC actions show geopolitical competition shaping regional AI investment and technology agendas, affecting strategic partnerships, standards and innovation paths across Asia.

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Singapore to launch national AI council for strategic direction

ASEAN report finds region eager for AI but lacking guidance

US pushes AI funding, fisheries tech at APEC amid China rivalry

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