Papers

• The Future of AI Regulation in Singapore Chen Meng Lam Singapore University of Social Sciences

  On March 13, 2024, the European Union policymakers approved the first regulatory framework, known as the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Act, to regulate the development and use of AI in the European Union (EU). The Act adopts a risk-based approach, where the extent of legal obligations imposed on value chain participants depends on the level of risk the AI poses. The Act establishes rules for data quality, transparency, human oversight, and accountability. It also aims to address ethical aspects of AI and the challenges in implementing the legislation in a wide range of industries. The Act is expected to be in force at a later date. The Act represents the world’s first rules on AI.

  In Southeast Asia, the governments have been cautious in deciding whether to adopt AI regulation. While some governments have issued AI guidelines and national policies, no government in the region has issued a comprehensive AI regulatory framework. Several factors have led to this overall cautious approach towards AI regulation. In particular, competing interests, such as the need to facilitate innovation while ensuring the responsible and trustworthy use of AI, are steering the regional countries towards a collaborative approach to regulate AI, rather than a prescriptive rule-based one.

  This paper critically explores the AI policymaking and governance trends in Singapore. It aims to examine the existing AI guidelines and ethical principles that are in place in Singapore (against the backdrop of the EU legislation), and explores the rationales for the stance taken in the approach towards AI governance in Singapore. It will discuss whether AI regulation is necessarily the best response for Singapore and explores the safeguards that might already be in place. The paper will also explore how the existing AI policymaking and governance approach in Singapore goes beyond simply addressing and managing the risks of AI to also encouraging, promoting and growing the AI industry that will be beneficial for the economy and society.

• Revisiting Multi-stakeholder Approach in AI Policy-Making: The Case of Indonesia Dewa Ayu Diah Angendari Leiden University

  The multi-stakeholder approach in the policy-making process is often regarded as an ideal way to achieve transparent and inclusive policy outcomes. Nevertheless, research demonstrates that the practice of multi-stakeholder approach is not always well-ordered. Organizations and individuals may attempt to follow specific imaginaries of multi-stakeholder work yet face difficulties implementing it. AI policy-making is not an exemption. Using Indonesia as a research site, this paper argues that the multi-stakeholders approach can be performed in two ways. First, the participation of different actors in the decision-making process is not always meaningful. The involvement of multiple actors is somehow perceived as a tactic to tick the box. Second, multi-stakeholder cooperation is not always equal. Instead, the approach can be an extension of power domination from the global north due to the gap in knowledge and resources. This essay attempts to understand how different actors have certain advantages in influencing the discussion process and outcomes. It calls for the critical role of Southeast Asia nations in creating a more meaningful discussion of AI regulation and addressing the dominance of particular actors in the policy arena.

• Conceptualizing AI Literacy for Entrepreneurial Advancement Aphiradee Saranrom Sukhothai Thamathirat Open University

  In the wake of rapid technological advancements, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal force driving innovation, efficiency, and competitive advantage in the global marketplace. Thailand, as a one of burgeoning economic hub in Southeast Asia, stands at the crossroads of embracing AI to propel its SMEs and entrepreneurial ventures into future-readiness. However, the integration of AI technologies presents a spectrum of challenges and opportunities, critically hinged on the foundational aspect of AI literacy among business owners, marketers, and entrepreneurs. This research delves into the nuanced landscape of AI literacy within Thailand’s SME sector, aiming to uncover the depths of understanding, application, and perception of AI technologies among Thai entrepreneurs and marketing professionals.

  The importance of this inquiry cannot be overstated, as AI literacy lays the groundwork for ethical usage, innovative applications, and strategic integration of AI within business practices. Moreover, the insights gleaned from assessing AI literacy levels among Thai SMEs are instrumental in guiding the development of nuanced, effective AI policies and regulations that align with the actual capabilities and needs of the business community. Such policies are paramount in safeguarding ethical standards, consumer trust, and competitive equity in the digital age, while also fostering an ecosystem conducive to innovation and growth.

  Through a comprehensive methodology comprising literature reviews, surveys, interviews, and policy analysis, this study aims to paint a detailed picture of the current state of AI literacy among SMEs and entrepreneurs in Thailand. It seeks to identify both the barriers to and enablers of effective AI adoption, with a particular focus on the marketing sector known for its early adoption and innovative use of technology. The research will offer a critical evaluation of existing AI policies, both within Thailand and in comparable international contexts, to distill best practices and highlight gaps in the current regulatory framework.

  Expected outcomes of this study include a granular understanding of AI literacy levels across different segments of Thailand’s SME sector, insights into the disparities and commonalities in AI knowledge and application, and concrete recommendations for policy makers. These recommendations will aim to not only address the current literacy gaps but also to anticipate the future needs of the business sector in the face of advancing AI technologies. Ultimately, the research proposes to contribute a forward-looking framework for AI literacy enhancement among Thai SMEs and entrepreneurs, paving the way for ethical, innovative, and equitable AI integration in business practices.

Abstract