Grab drivers wait for ride requests in Hanoi, Vietnam. Photo by Asia Today
May 25 (Asia Today) -- Southeast Asia is emerging as a major beneficiary of the global artificial intelligence race led by the United States and China, with booming investment in semiconductors and data centers. But analysts warn that about 40 million gig economy workers across the region, along with growing numbers of office employees, remain dangerously exposed to automation without adequate social protections.
The gig economy refers to a labor system in which companies rely on freelancers and short-term contract workers instead of full-time employees.
According to the South China Morning Post, Southeast Asian countries are rapidly moving into the global AI value chain.
Malaysian government data showed semiconductor exports are expected to reach about $117 billion, or about 178 trillion won, in 2025, accounting for roughly one-quarter of the country's total exports. More than 140 data centers are either planned or under construction, with investments exceeding $6 billion, or about 9.1 trillion won.
