Singapore’s Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing has urged ASEAN member states to prioritize regional data sharing, identifying it as a critical driver for future economic expansion. Speaking at the 18th ASEAN and Asia Forum on August 3, 2026, he emphasized that data, alongside energy and finance, serves as a foundational pillar for the region's economic development. By enabling the seamless flow of information across borders, ASEAN countries could unlock new business insights and foster innovation that remains currently untapped due to fragmented policies.
Chan highlighted that while oil is a finite, zero-sum resource, data is a renewable asset that gains value through collective use. He cautioned that the region must actively resist the temptation of 'data protectionism'—the practice of restricting data movement across borders—which he warned could stifle the growth of new business ideas and hinder regional integration. According to the minister, every sector with high growth potential, from digital services to advanced manufacturing, will increasingly rely on the ability to move and analyze data across the ASEAN bloc.
Beyond data, Chan pointed to the importance of energy and finance as 'commanding heights' of the new regional economy. He noted that while intergovernmental cooperation is vital, the private sector must remain a primary driver for 'bankable projects' that can eventually link into wider regional networks. As Singapore prepares for its ASEAN chairmanship in 2027, these themes are expected to remain central to its agenda for strengthening regional competitiveness and resilience in an increasingly volatile global landscape.
Looking ahead, the practical implementation of these goals will depend on whether member states can harmonize their regulatory environments. While the potential for growth is significant, the region faces the ongoing challenge of balancing national interests with the benefits of deeper integration. Observers will be watching to see how ASEAN navigates these structural hurdles to ensure that the digital and energy sectors can effectively support the next phase of the region's economic evolution.