Myanmar delegation attends 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in Vietnam

A Myanmar delegation led by Union Minister for Transport and Communications U Mya Tun Oo attended the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting (6th ADGMIN) and related meetings with dialogue partners, held in Hanoi, Vietnam, on 15 and 16 January.

The 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting was held under the theme “Adaptive ASEAN — From Connectivity to Connected Intelligence” and focused on the advancement of the digital sector in the ASEAN region. Discussions centred on cooperation to promote the safe, ethical and inclusive use of artificial intelligence, the application of AI-based systems in traditional connectivity sectors, and ways to jointly address emerging challenges.

During the meeting, the Union minister expressed support for the theme, noting that it aligns with ASEAN’s objective of strengthening connectivity networks through artificial intelligence in order to build a trusted and integrated system that safeguards the interests of citizens. He stated that member states are working to establish robust and appropriate governance frameworks to ensure the safe and ethical use of AI, to develop secure digital infrastructure, to promote trusted cross-border data flows, and to advance citizen-centred digital government systems. He also emphasized the importance of taking into account disparities in digital technological development among member states when jointly implementing AI governance in the ASEAN region, and of allowing flexibility for national-level implementation. He further affirmed that Myanmar would continue to cooperate with all ASEAN member states to successfully implement ASEAN’s digital transformation goals under the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2030.

At the meeting, participants reviewed projects implemented in 2025, approved projects planned for 2026, endorsed funding for those projects, and discussed and agreed on cooperative approaches in areas such as combating online scams, enhancing cybersecurity, and ensuring the systematic development of artificial intelligence.

The 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting concluded on the afternoon of 16 January, following the ceremony marking the endorsement and announcement of the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2030. During the meeting, the Hanoi Digital Declaration was issued.

On the evening of 15 January, the Union minister attended a state banquet hosted by the Government of Vietnam at the Melia Hanoi Hotel, as well as the ASEAN Digital Awards 2026 ceremony. At the awards ceremony, a team from Mandalay, Myanmar — Tem Europa — competed in the Digital Start-up category with their project entitled “Green Globe: Waste Management for a Better World!” and won third prize.

On 14 January, at the invitation of the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology, the Union minister attended the 2026 China-ASEAN Digital Ecosystem Cooperation Networking Event and delivered a keynote address.

In his address, the Union minister stated that digital systems are becoming increasingly trustworthy and more citizen-centred. However, as digital transformation deepens, connectivity alone is no longer sufficient; the next stage requires intelligence, adaptability and innovation. He stressed that as new technologies continue to emerge and advance, societies must also progress. As challenges increase, there is a growing need for stronger unity and collective responses. He called for cooperation not only to enhance technological capabilities, but also to expand opportunities for a better future for all people in the region.

MNA/KZL

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