October 7, 2024 – True Corporation’s Sharad Mehrotra, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, participated as a speaker at the ASEAN Economic Outlook 2025: The Rise of ASEAN, A Renewing Opportunity. Mr. Mehrotra highlighted how AI and data centers have been enhancing business efficiency and reducing costs. He also underscored the need for greater regional collaboration on the topic of responsible AI. True Corporation, as the first organization in Thailand to adopt the GSMA’s Responsible AI Roadmap, is calling for sustainable AI usage that respects privacy and the environment while treating all users equally.
Mr. Sharad said: “Thailand is in a privileged position to share the benefits of AI with its neighbors in the ASEAN region and maximize its potential for Thai people. We have a robust data and telecom-tech infrastructure that operates in a stable and reliable business environment. To realize the full value of these assets, True Corporation is calling for greater regional collaboration on the topic of responsible AI in all three ESG dimensions: environmental, social and governance. This will ensure AI benefits everyone in Thailand and beyond.”
Mr. Mehrotra noted that AI is projected to significantly boost productivity, potentially adding up to $1 trillion to ASEAN’s GDP by 2030 (as per research by McKinsey & Company). True Corporation has been leveraging AI to personalize customer experiences, automate operations, and reduce energy consumption, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2030 and net zero by 2050.
“AI is already transforming our customers’ experience, with 35% faster service in shops, as well as Generative AI chatbots that can be reached 24/7. AI also allows us to be more efficient, reducing energy consumption at our sites by up to 15%, in line with our climate goals,” he explained.
Mr. Mehrotra also discussed the industries that are likely to benefit from AI, emphasizing its transformative potential across various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, and marketing. He underscored True Corporation’s strategic initiatives, such as the creation of the Chief Customer & AI Officer role, which drives innovation and operational efficiency.
The panel discussion titled “Development and Future of AI & Data Centers in ASEAN” featured other notable industry leaders. Addressing the ethical and responsible development of AI, Mr. Mehrotra highlighted True Corporation’s ethical AI charter and its adoption of the GSMA’s Responsible AI Roadmap. He stressed the importance of robust data protection frameworks and national conversations on AI ethics to ensure fairness and transparency.
Furthermore, Mr. Mehrotra explored how the development of AI and data centers could help bridge the digital divide among ASEAN member countries. He pointed out that these technologies can drive economic growth, job creation, and regional collaboration in combating cross-border crime and promoting renewable energy. He emphasized Thailand’s strategic position as a regional hub for AI and data center services, offering significant opportunities for economic development.
