Powering up governance in Asean with digitalisation

AS THE ASSOCIATION of South-east Asian Nations celebrates 50 years of its establishment this year, one of its key achievements has been the formation of the Asean Economic Community (AEC) - a platform that enables the economic integration of its 10 member states. It is already making an impact on the economy of the region, which would be far greater in the years to come.

The potential for Asean is huge: with its 630 million people (with more than half of them under 30) and US$1.5 trillion consumer market, it is going to be the shining star of foreign investors. South-east Asia is the fourth largest exporting region in the world, accounting for 7 per cent of global exports. As a single economic entity, Asean would be the world's seventh largest economy. The region has seen economic growth average a healthy 4-5 per cent per annum since its formation.

Member countries in Asean are fully cognisant of this huge potential, and their goals of accelerating the economic growth, social progress and cultural development in the region through joint endeavours and promoting regional peace and stability underline that. The Asean goals are aligned with the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals - to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all as part of a new "sustainable development agenda3". From a development and governance point of view, it also includes goals such as sustainable cities and communities, and responsible production and consumption.