The ASEAN Foundation, supported by Google.org, has officially launched AI Class ASEAN, a free e-learning platform aimed at equipping over 5.5 million learners across Southeast Asia with essential artificial intelligence (AI) knowledge and skills. The launch took place during the 2nd Regional Policy Convening of AI Ready ASEAN held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
AI Class ASEAN is a flagship initiative under the 2.5-year AI Ready ASEAN programme, funded by a USD 5 million grant from Google.org. The platform offers 70 localized training modules tailored to the diverse needs of the ASEAN region, supported by AI-powered chatbots, real-time translation, and interactive discussion forums to encourage collaborative and multilingual learning.
Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation, emphasized the importance of empowering communities with AI skills for a future-proof ASEAN, highlighting that the initiative promotes opportunity, inclusion, and shared progress.
The programme aims to foster inclusive and responsible adoption of AI technologies across ASEAN, bringing together policymakers, educators, youth leaders, civil society organizations, and private sector experts. The launch was attended by key figures including Malaysia’s Minister of Digital Technology, the Secretary-General of ASEAN, and Google Asia Pacific executives.
Since its inception, the AI Ready ASEAN programme has reached over 400,000 beneficiaries through grassroots campaigns such as Hour of Code, building strong local networks across universities, schools, and government agencies.
AI Class ASEAN is set to play a pivotal role in preparing the region’s current and future generations to thrive in an AI-powered world, promoting ethical, fair, and transparent use of artificial intelligence.
This development represents a major leap in AI education and capacity building in Southeast Asia as of August 2025.