In this Talk at the Library, Elina Noor, director of political-security affairs at the Asia Society Policy Institute discussed digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in Southeast Asia, and drew from her learnings and experiences in co-writing the recently published report Raising Standards. Data and Artificial Intelligence in Southeast Asia. She touched on the importance and difficulty of accounting for local differences and aspects in tech to emphasize that technology is always deeply reflective of its specific societal environment. Elina argues that data, tech and AI should be considered in a relational context, and not just as neutral tools to measure economic growth and efficiency. 

How can countries in Southeast Asia live up to their potential to shape international standard-setting? Which population groups are neglected in digital inclusion? Do they even want to be included? And why is the etymology of words important when talking about data and ethical AI? 

Watch the video above to find out how she tackles these questions with our Outreach and Communications Manager Rebecca Farner, who moderated this session.

Elina Noor is Director, Political-Security Affairs and Deputy Director, Washington, D.C. Office at the Asia Society Policy Institute. A native of Malaysia, Elina’s work focuses on security developments in Southeast Asia, global governance and technology, and preventing/countering violent extremism.
Previously, Elina was Associate Professor at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. Prior to that, she was Director, Foreign Policy and Security Studies at the Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia. She currently serves on the ICRC’s Global Advisory Board on digital threats during conflict. Elina read law at Oxford University. She obtained an LL.M (Public International Law) from The London School of Economics and Political Science, University of London, graduating with distinction at the top of her class. A recipient of the Perdana (Malaysian Prime Minister’s) Fellowship, she also holds an MA in Security Studies from Georgetown University where she was a Women in International Security Scholar.