State of digitalization in the Southeast Asia region – bibliometric analysis

Abstract

The digital revolution is reshaping global economies and societies, and Southeast Asia is no exception. This paper presents a bibliometric analysis of the state of digitalization in Southeast Asia, focusing on the period from 2018 to 2023. By leveraging the Scopus database, we conducted a comprehensive review of literature in the digital domain, identifying key trends, regional disparities, and thematic focuses within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) nations. Our analysis reveals significant strides in digitalization, marked by increased scholarly attention and publication output, particularly from countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. The study also highlights a stark digital divide within the region, with countries like Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar lagging in digital infrastructure and literacy. We analyzed 5058 articles from the last five years using a bibliometric approach to assess publication patterns, author affiliations, and emerging research themes, revealing a diversified research landscape. Significant contributions were found in areas including digital governance, economy, infrastructure, and societal impacts. The paper also discusses the role of digitalization in economic growth, social inclusion, and sustainable development within the region. Our findings underscore the importance of regional collaborations and targeted policies to bridge the digital divide. We emphasize the necessity of inclusive digital strategies that consider the unique socio-economic and cultural contexts of each ASEAN country. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers, academicians, and industry stakeholders, guiding future research agendas and digital initiatives in Southeast Asia. The bibliometric analysis not only maps the scholarly terrain but also offers actionable intelligence for decision-makers in navigating the digitalization landscape across this dynamic and diverse region.