ET CIO Southeast Asia

In 2025, Google transformed its search engine into a powerful intelligence platform with AI capabilities, adept at deciphering intricate queries and accommodating multimodal searches. India emerged as a pioneering market, testing groundbreaking features such as AI Mode featuring Gemini 3, the revolutionary Nano Banana Pro for dynamic image creation, and the Virtual Apparel Try-On experience.

OpenAI is acquiring Neptune, a startup that helps companies track AI model training. The deal value was not disclosed, but reports suggest it is less than $400 million in stock. OpenAI already uses Neptune's tools for its own large language models. This acquisition comes as OpenAI prepares for a potential IPO, though a listing is not in immediate plans.

Singapore will phase out the Work Permit (Performing Artiste) scheme after a Ministry of Manpower report uncovered widespread misuse by nightlife syndicates. From 1 June 2026, MOM will stop accepting new applications, urging employers to shift to compliant hiring channels. The move aims to strengthen workforce governance and protect fair employment practices in the entertainment sector.

Alphabet is on the cusp of becoming a $4 trillion company, fueled by AI advancements and a favorable antitrust ruling. The tech giant's shares have surged, outpacing rivals, as it regains investor confidence with its new Gemini 3 model and a revitalized cloud business. This marks a significant comeback after initial AI concerns.

Google DeepMind is launching a new AI research lab in Singapore to foster collaboration with Asian governments, businesses, and academia. The Alphabet-owned unit has significantly expanded its Asia-based team and plans to focus on education, healthcare, and science research, recognizing Southeast Asia's high AI adoption rates.

Malaysia expects seniors to make up 14% of its population by 2048, prompting the launch of the National Ageing Blueprint 2025–2045. The plan outlines improvements in employment, social protection, health and long-term care. PSD aims to enhance pension services through digitalisation and stronger inter-agency coordination.

South Korean conglomerate SK Group said on Sunday it will invest 128 trillion won ($87.9 billion) through 2028 in the domestic market, with a focus on chip manufacturing to meet the growing demand in artificial intelligence (AI) fields.

Malaysia will introduce a Non-Employment Injury Scheme to protect workers in flexible and remote roles, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced at the World Social Security Forum 2025. The scheme aims to extend coverage beyond office hours, aligning worker protection with modern work realities.

UIDAI has launched a new Aadhaar app for simplified and secure digital identity management on smartphones. This app allows users to store and selectively share Aadhaar details, manage multiple family profiles, and utilize modern authentication methods for everyday verification. It complements the existing mAadhaar app, which handles document downloads and PVC card orders.

Malaysia’s labour market is expected to remain strong through 2026, with full employment supported by the services and construction sectors. Economists cite domestic demand, tourism recovery, and policy support under Budget 2026 as key drivers of sustained job creation and workforce stability.