
How ASEAN is testing the concept of digital multilateralism
ASEAN's Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) could be a boost for the region's businesses and become a digital lighthouse for the rest of the world.
Mario Masaya is the Vice President of Research, Technology and Financial Services, at the US-ASEAN Business Council's Washington, DC office. He has been with the Council since 2014, working across its Jakarta, Singapore and Washington, DC offices.
Over the years, Mario has developed and led many of USABC’s flagship programs, focusing on AI, fintech, digital assets, cybersecurity, SME empowerment, and the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA). He is an expert speaker on technology, digital policy, and financial services, and has written for a range of publications, including the Stimson Center and World Economic Forum.
Mario holds an MBA from New York University Stern School of Business, an M.Sc. in Asian Studies from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, and a BA from Parahyangan University in Indonesia. He also studied Chinese language and culture at Beijing Language and Culture University.
ASEAN's Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) could be a boost for the region's businesses and become a digital lighthouse for the rest of the world.
ASEAN can harness ethical AI, data governance and diaspora engagement to drive its digital economy – along with innovation, growth and regional integration.
