The 2026 World Internet Conference (WIC) Asia-Pacific Summit officially concluded today in Hong Kong, marking two days of high-intensity dialogue among global policymakers, tech titans, and academic pioneers. Representing the Asia Academy of Digital Economics (AADE), President Poh Hwee Tan presented the Academy’s latest research and observations, reinforcing AADE’s role as a cornerstone for regional digital cooperation.
A "Super-Connector" for the AI Era
The summit, themed "Digital and Intelligent Empowerment for Innovative Development — Jointly Building a Community with a Shared Future in Cyberspace," arrived at a pivotal moment as the Asia-Pacific region enters a new phase of AI-driven transformation. Hosting the event for the second time, Hong Kong served as a "super-connector," a sentiment echoed by Chief Executive John Lee during the opening ceremony, where he outlined the city's strategy to integrate AI across all industries.
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee delivered their remarks
For AADE, the summit was an opportunity to engage directly with ministerial-level officials and delegates from over 50 countries. Poh Hwee Tan participated in discussions across the summit’s six specialized sub-forums, which covered critical frontiers including AI Agent Innovation, Digital Finance, and AI Safety Governance.
Insights from the Frontlines of Innovation
In his address to the forum, Poh Hwee Tan shared AADE’s observations on the shifting pulse of the digital era. "The dialogue here confirms that we are moving beyond theoretical AI into a phase of deep execution," he noted. "The synergy between policy insights and industrial foresight seen this week strengthens our resolve to drive practical, cross-border digital cooperation."
Key research shared by AADE highlighted:
- The Rise of AI Agents: How autonomous intelligent agents are reshaping service economies in Southeast Asia.
- Governance through Technology: The necessity of unified RegTech frameworks to ensure that AI safety does not come at the cost of innovation.
- Digital Inclusivity: Ensuring that the "Global Majority"—particularly developing nations in the APAC region—shares in the dividends of digital intelligence.
Strengthening the Pillars of Digital Cooperation
The summit served as a powerful catalyst for AADE’s strategic missions. By contributing to the "Tribute to Digital Pioneers" dialogues and the AI for Better Life forum, AADE actively worked to dismantle digital silos and foster high-level global cooperation.
The Academy’s presence at the summit underscored its commitment to Digital Connectivity and Pioneer RegTech. As the region moves toward a more integrated digital future, AADE is dedicated to ensuring that this growth is governed by the principle of "technology for good," balancing the rapid pace of AI innovation with the resilience and security required for a stable global economy.
As the curtains fall on this year's APAC Summit, the sense of momentum is palpable. AADE remains steadfast in its belief that through platforms like the World Internet Conference, the Asia-Pacific can lead the way in crafting a digital future that is not only technologically advanced but fundamentally equitable.