UK-ASEAN report emphasises artist-led innovation

The ASEAN–UK Advancing Creative Economy (ACE) Programme, an initiative of the UK Mission to ASEAN, has launched its latest research report, Arts and Technologies in ASEAN: Interconnected Parts.

Delivered by the British Council and developed in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat, the study explores the intersection of arts and emerging technologies across the ASEAN region. The report uncovers new opportunities, key challenges, and recommendations for creative practitioners, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.

Drawing from extensive case studies and over 60 interviews with artists, technologists, policymakers, and academics, the report examines how technology is transforming artistic expression and business models, opening new pathways for growth and cross-sector collaboration.

The report identifies artist-led innovation as a major driver of ASEAN's creative economy, with artists blending traditional and digital practices across fashion, animation, music, and new media. Interdisciplinary collaboration is redefining creative work, positioning artists as researchers, coders, and entrepreneurs.

H.E. Sarah Tiffin, UK Ambassador to ASEAN, said: "This report reinforces the UK's commitment to working with ASEAN to harness innovation, strengthen talent, and build a more connected and sustainable creative economy."

Summer Xia, Director of Southeast Asia at the British Council, highlighted the significance of the report in shaping the future of the sector: "At the British Council, we recognise the creative economy as a key driver of sustainable development. This report not only charts the current landscape of creative technologies in ASEAN but also offers crucial insights to help industry leaders, governments, and cultural institutions adapt to and shape this evolving space."

The ACE programme is an initiative of the UK Mission to ASEAN.

More on the research.

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