PETALING JAYA: Several Asean ministers called for a balance between the race for innovation and improving the people’s welfare.
During the 34th Asean Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council meeting here, the ministers agreed that South-East Asia’s strength lies not in machines, but in people.
Coordinating Minister of Human Development and Culture of Indonesia, Pratikno, highlighted the dual-edged nature of technology in society.
“Technology is like a double-edged sword,” he said, adding that the challenge is not whether to use technology, but who wields it and for what purpose.
Reflecting on the transformative impact of digital technologies and AI, Pratikno said there are both opportunities and risks.
“During the Covid-19 pandemic, digital technology kept schools open and economies running and even saved lives.
“But it also exposed deep gaps, unequal access, digital literacy, and workers left behind,” he said at the meeting here yesterday.
Singapore Minister of Social and Family Development Masador Zulkifli, stressed that human capital is the island nation’s most important asset.
He emphasised policies that support vulnerable groups from birth to adulthood, focusing on family, early intervention, and strength-based approaches.
“Even in a country like Singapore, there is always a bottom 20%. Therefore, everyone matters. Those who are vulnerable also matter,” said Zulkifli, highlighting the importance of giving every individual the opportunity to reach their full potential.
He also stressed early interventions for children, citing research that links maternal health and well-being during pregnancy to a child’s future learning potential.
It was reported that Singapore has issued guidance advocating zero screen time for children in their first 1,000 days to protect brain development.
Meanwhile, Brunei Darussalam’s Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Dato Nazmi Mohammad, said sports remained a powerful unifying force across Asean, fostering friendship, discipline and shared purpose.
“Sports are not merely about competition or medals.
“They are a celebration of connection, a way to build friendships and foster mutual respect among our nations,” he added.
Citing sepak takraw as an emblem of Asean’s cultural identity, Nazmi said traditional sports remind the region of its roots while inspiring global recognition.
“Sepak takraw started in our villages, but today, it’s recognised internationally.
“Through such sports, our youth learn teamwork, resilience, and leadership.”
He added that investing in sports is an investment in people.
“When we nurture athletes, we also nurture leaders.
“Sports diplomacy continues to be one of Asean’s strongest bridges of unity.”
Kamphou Phiasackha, director-general of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Laos, said that the cultural and creative industries are now becoming an essential part of Asean’s digital and economic landscape.
“Culture and innovation are not opposites – they are partners.
“Our creative youth are blending traditional crafts with modern technology, using AI, design and media to tell Asean’s story to the world.”
He added that Asean’s creative industries, rooted in heritage, can be a model for low-carbon and inclusive economic growth.
“In Laos, we’ve seen young people create fashion, film and digital art that preserve our traditions while generating new opportunities. This is the future of sustainable creativity.”
Kamphou urged Asean to invest not only in technology but also in the creative and sporting sectors that unite communities.
“A film, a song, a match – these are shared experiences that transcend language.”
