Back to Blog
AI PolicyRegulationASEAN

AI Regulation in Southeast Asia: A Comparative Overview

June 12, 2026 by Inference Loops

As artificial intelligence reshapes economies worldwide, Southeast Asian nations are racing to develop governance frameworks that balance innovation with responsible deployment. This post surveys the landscape.

Singapore: The Regional Leader

Singapore has emerged as ASEAN’s most advanced AI governance regime. Its Model AI Governance Framework, first published in 2019 and regularly updated, provides practical guidance for organisations deploying AI. The city-state has also established the AI Verify Foundation to develop AI testing tools.

Key lessons for Cambodia: Singapore demonstrates the value of a principles-based, industry-led approach. Rather than prescriptive regulation, the framework guides organisations while allowing flexibility for innovation.

Thailand: Ambitious but Early Stage

Thailand’s National AI Strategy and Action Plan (2022–2027) outlines ambitious goals across ethics, infrastructure, and workforce development. The country has established an AI Ethics Guidelines framework and is investing heavily in AI research centres.

Key lessons for Cambodia: Thailand shows the importance of cross-ministerial coordination and dedicated funding for AI initiatives.

Vietnam: Digital Government Driving AI

Vietnam’s National Strategy on AI focuses heavily on using AI to modernise public services. The country has set a target of having AI deployed across all government agencies by 2030.

Key lessons for Cambodia: Vietnam demonstrates how government digital transformation can be a powerful driver of AI adoption.

Malaysia: Balancing Innovation and Ethics

Malaysia has taken a measured approach, developing both a National AI Roadmap and ethical guidelines through its Malaysia Centre for AI Governance (MCAG).

What This Means for Cambodia

For Cambodia, the regional landscape offers several important insights:

  1. Start with principles, not prescriptive rules — flexibility enables innovation while safeguards protect citizens
  2. Coordinate across ministries — AI governance touches digital economy, education, labour, and more
  3. Invest in capacity — regulation is only as effective as the institutions that enforce it
  4. Learn from neighbours — Cambodia can adapt regional best practices to its unique context

At Inference Loops, we track these developments closely and advise on frameworks tailored to Cambodia’s specific needs and aspirations.