Industry groups say Marcos, Jr’s remarks reflect a “growing recognition of urgent realities" facing the region at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty, energy price volatility, and growing climate risks.
As Thailand advances its EV ambitions, a looming surge in spent batteries highlights regulatory gaps and environmental risks – underscoring the need for robust recycling systems and regional cooperation.
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Indonesia’s new capital Nusantara and the Malaysian states of Perak and Pahang were raised as examples by industry leaders. Thai and Indoneisan policymakers also said that current tariff structures are being reconsidered to cope with rising water demand.
With the Philippines and Vietnam reported to being the hardest hit markets in deepfake‑related fraud incidents in Asia Pacific, Josephine Romero of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Business Advisory Council emphasised business’ role in driving AI literacy.