HONOR launched the AI + Youth Empowerment Society (AYES) at the inaugural HONOR AI + Design Summit 2025 (APAC Edition) in Malaysia, marking a major step toward strengthening AI literacy and digital readiness among young people across the Asia-Pacific region. The initiative focuses on building essential skills, nurturing creativity, and preparing youth for an increasingly AI-driven job market.
With over 700 million young people in APAC, AYES aims to close the digital skills gap through a strong network of 25 founding members that include government agencies, universities, and industry leaders. Among the key partners are the National AI Office (Malaysia), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Central Academy of Fine Arts (China), Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (Singapore), and GSMA APAC. HONOR will lead and coordinate the initiative as its main driving force.
Martin Xu, Senior Vice President of HONOR, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating that empowering youth across APAC with AI and digital skills will stimulate economic growth and support sustainable innovation. He also noted HONOR’s long-standing commitment to nurturing young creative talent through programmes like the HONOR Talents Design Competition, which has attracted more than 35,000 creators from over 40 countries.
Xu further emphasized that the Asia-Pacific region is a strategic partner for the company’s growth and development. HONOR aims to accelerate the region’s digital transformation by advancing an open AI ecosystem that enhances productivity, encourages cross-industry innovation, and supports inclusive progress. The company envisions a future where AI and design work together to elevate local talent and drive long-term regional development.
The launch was attended by more than 200 scholars, industry leaders, and young creators, along with official tech media collaborators Amanz, Zing Gadget, and TechNave. The HONOR AI + Design Summit provided a platform for knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and the development of solutions tailored to the region’s needs.
During the event, HONOR also presented its first AYES Outstanding Contribution Award to Malaysian designer Joseph Foo, recognizing his impactful efforts in championing youth empowerment and creative education. Foo has played a key role in guiding young designers through workshops, the HONOR Global Design Summit, and the Alpha Technology & Art Tour, influencing more than 10,000 emerging creators across the region.
