Promoting Inclusive Leadership in ASEAN Innovation: Cambodia Advocates for Equitable Regional Project Management

• Proeksa Meas
• 27 October 2026
• Construction Focus
• 98 Views

The 90th COSTI Meeting in Vietnam Sets a Collaborative Vision for Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technology, and Regional Scientific Advancement

Vietnam: Advancing a strong stance on regional equity, Cambodia has called for greater leadership opportunities for developing ASEAN member states in regional projects during the 90th meeting of the ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation (COSTI-90) held in Da Nang, Vietnam. Hosted by the Ministry of Science and Technology of Vietnam from October 13 to 15, 2026, the high-level convening centered on executing the ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology, and Innovation (APASTI) 2026-2035, alongside key priorities involving research financing, artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and space cooperation.

During the sessions, Dr. Try Sophal, Director General of Science, Technology, and Innovation at the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation, emphasized that true inclusiveness extends far beyond mere participation, requiring active avenues for leadership, contribution, and priority-setting within regional initiatives. He proposed the establishment of rotational leadership mechanisms, co-leadership frameworks, and tailored capacity-building supports to ensure that every member state holds both a voice and a steering role in regional progress.

The meeting also reviewed thirty project proposals under the 2026 ASEAN Science, Technology, and Innovation Fund, alongside strategic discussions regarding regional artificial intelligence programs in healthcare, space cooperation, and the proposed ASEAN action plan on quantum technology. Cambodia strongly asserted that inclusive project leadership will effectively bridge regional innovation gaps, strengthen collective ownership, and ensure that ASEAN’s long-term technology agenda mirrors the diverse capabilities of all member countries.

In conclusion, Cambodia’s proactive advocacy at the COSTI-90 meeting marks a crucial milestone in fostering harmonious and equitable technological growth across Southeast Asia. Empowering all member states to take on leadership roles guarantees that regional advancements in artificial intelligence and quantum tech remain inclusive, sustainable, and truly reflective of collective aspirations. (read more)

• MISTI
• science
• Arch-Tech Network
• COSTI
• APASTI
• ASEAN