Asia leads in AI but faces data quality & security issues

Hitachi Vantara's recent study has found that Asia is leading the world in AI adoption, though issues with data quality and security could hamper sustained progress.

The Hitachi Vantara State of Data Infrastructure Survey, which included responses from 1,200 global participants, highlights key findings such as 42% of Asian organisations regarding AI as critical, surpassing the global average of 37%. China and Singapore, in particular, show high levels of full-scale AI integration at 53% and 57% respectively.

However, despite such advancements, Asian enterprises face challenges with AI implementation due to incomplete foundational data structures. The survey indicates that the accuracy of AI models stands at an average of 32% and only 30% of data is structured, suggesting many AI systems are operating on "messy" data.

In addition to data quality, the escalating demand for data storage adds complexity, with expectations of a 123% increase in requirements over the next two years. Security is an additional concern in Asia, with 44% of the respondents citing it as a top issue, compared to the global average of 38%. This anxiety is particularly pronounced in India and Indonesia.

Despite these hurdles, there is a strong focus on developing expertise in AI. The research reveals that 71% of Asian enterprises are recruiting AI-skilled personnel, and 68% are engaging with external experts in AI, both above the global averages. In contrast, Malaysia shows a higher inclination towards self-teaching AI skills.

Success in AI adoption across Asia appears to rely on high-quality data, strategic partnerships with AI vendors, and robust governance frameworks. In fact, 40% of Asia's successful AI adopters attribute their achievements to high-quality data, and 39% consider partnerships with external specialists essential.

Adrian Johnson, Senior Vice President and General Manager for The Americas and Asia Pacific at Hitachi Vantara, stated, "Asia's rapid AI adoption is not a promise; it's a reality. The region's markets show that when organisations pair advanced adoption with data best practices, AI can transcend pilot projects to become truly transformative. However, leaders must recognise that data availability, security, quality, and governance are not optional. Without them, AI's potential will remain under-realised."

Turning a focus towards building on current strengths, Asian organisations are advised to improve data structuring, availability, and security to maintain AI momentum. This approach should enable more precise AI models and align projects with global standards and regulatory demands.

Furthermore, the survey highlights the need for third-party support among IT leaders in Asia. Assistance is particularly necessary in areas such as hardware, data storage, processing solutions, and software development to ensure AI models are effective, secure, and sustainable.

"By aligning AI expansion with data integrity and strategic resource investments, Asia's enterprises can fully capitalise on their early lead," added Johnson. "This focus on foundational data elements, along with strategic partnerships and effective governance, can ensure AI initiatives deliver truly transformative and enduring value."