Navigating IT/OT Risks for AI in ASEAN Manufacturing

Unveiling the Hidden Barriers to AI in ASEAN Manufacturing \\[10pt] As the manufacturing sector in Southeast Asia accelerates its digital transformation, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a critical component. However, many factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia are encountering unexpected hurdles that stem from their existing IT and operational technology (OT) environments. These challenges can significantly impede the successful deployment of AI at scale. \\[10pt] On June 17, 2026, E Tech Group, a leading provider of industrial automation and systems integration, will host a live session titled "AI-Ready or Not: The Hidden IT/OT Risks Blocking AI in Manufacturing." This interactive session aims to help manufacturers in the ASEAN region identify and address these foundational challenges before they derail AI initiatives. \\[10pt] **Understanding the Risks** \\[10pt] The session will be led by Eric Medecke, Director of IT/OT Solutions, and Kevin Romer, Industrial IT Specialist, both of whom bring extensive experience in industrial cybersecurity, network architecture, and IT/OT convergence. They will guide attendees through real-world challenges and practical solutions for strengthening the infrastructure required to support AI. \\[10pt] For factories in Thailand, the issue of unstable network architecture and fragmented systems is particularly pressing. Many Thai manufacturers are still using legacy systems that are not designed to handle the data demands of AI. In Vietnam, the challenge lies in inconsistent data quality and gaps in historian strategy, which can lead to unreliable AI-driven insights. In Indonesia, the lack of a well-architected IT/OT environment is a significant barrier, while in Malaysia, the focus is on improving system integration and data reliability. \\[10pt] **Practical Strategies for Success** \\[10pt] During the session, attendees will learn how to identify common IT/OT risks, evaluate the readiness of their infrastructure, and participate in an interactive diagnostic to benchmark their current state. The goal is to provide practical strategies to improve data reliability, system connectivity, and scalability. \\[10pt] Matt Wise, CEO of E Tech Group, emphasizes the importance of a secure and well-architected IT/OT environment. Without it, organizations risk stalled initiatives and missed ROI. By understanding the risks and taking a more strategic approach to AI readiness, manufacturers can build a solid foundation for their AI projects. \\[10pt] **Takeaway for Factory Buyers** \\[10pt] For factory buyers in the ASEAN region, the key takeaway is to prioritize a thorough assessment of their IT/OT infrastructure. This includes evaluating network stability, data quality, and system integration. By addressing these foundational issues, manufacturers can ensure that their AI initiatives are built on a robust and scalable foundation, leading to improved performance and a higher return on investment. \\[10pt] Register for the live session [here](https://etechgroup.com/ai-ready-or-not-the-hidden-it-ot-risks-blocking-ai-in-manufacturing/) to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for AI readiness in your factory.