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Hi readers,
The slowdown in AI adoption in Southeast Asia shouldn’t come as a surprise.
Early adopters drove the first wave, but many industries are only now beginning to explore the possibilities—and challenges—of generative AI.
While businesses are eager to integrate the tech into their products, many hesitate to invest in such rapidly evolving software. With new features and tools emerging almost monthly, AI can quickly become outdated.
Adopting new software also requires a deep understanding of industry trends, a high tolerance for risk, and preparation for inevitable setbacks. Bugs, unanticipated hardware upgrades, and the constant threat of newer, better tools make AI adoption particularly challenging.
Startups and analysts began discussing this slowdown about six months ago. But the issue came into sharper focus in October at the Tech in Asia Conference in Jakarta, where several founders shared firsthand accounts of these challenges.
What I heard in Jakarta was echoed by industry data and conversations with venture capitalists.
Reversing this trend won’t be easy. However, showcasing clear business use cases—practical examples of AI’s capabilities—seems to be the most promising way forward.
— Scott Shuey, journalist at Tech in Asia
Top stories this week
Image credit: Timmy Loen
1️. Global or local? SEA AI firms mull strategies amid client caution
Businesses in Southeast Asia are wary about adopting AI, posing a problem for the region’s AI startups.
2. Toku eyes 1st profitable year in 2025 as acquisition bears fruit
The Singapore-based firm says it is on track to achieve net profitability on a monthly basis by the end of this year.
3. From bricks to clicks: Superbank’s digital rise
Having officially launched its services in June, Superbank has gained traction and has about 2 million registered users.
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