AI threatens nearly a quarter of Southeast Asia’s workforce but not all is lost

A July report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) indicates that nearly a quarter of Southeast Asia's workforce is at risk of job disruption or impact from generative AI (GenAI). The report highlights that clerical, administrative, and professional roles are most vulnerable. In contrast, manual trades, craft, and agricultural work are relatively less affected. The extent of AI's influence across the region is expected to vary depending on factors such as economic development, digital infrastructure, and labor policies. While fears of AI replacing manual labor have not yet materialized, white-collar workers are advised to prepare for potential changes.