The Human Edge in AI and Work explores how workers across Southeast Asia really feel about AI — not “will I lose my job,” but “how do I stay relevant alongside it.” Based on a 3,000-respondent regional study, it reveals where optimism, anxiety, and adoption barriers collide.
Workers fear dependency more than job loss
53% of respondents cite over-dependence on AI as their top concern — ahead of privacy issues (40%) and job loss itself (34%). Indonesia (61%) and Thailand (55%) show the highest concern levels in the region.
Assist, don’t replace: the worker’s vision for AI
41% expect AI to assist without replacing core tasks, and 51% say it will help save time on repetitive work. Only 10% believe their role will be replaced entirely.
Cautious optimism, with regional variation
54% overall describe themselves as optimistic about AI’s role — led by Vietnam (65%) and Thailand (58%), while Singapore shows the most caution, largely due to greater AI exposure and awareness of risks.
Download the full report for market-by-market breakdowns, adoption barriers, and what it means for employers navigating the AI transition in Southeast Asia.
