Asia Pacific is rapidly advancing into an AI-driven future, with Thinking Machines Data Science spearheading efforts through its newly announced collaboration with OpenAI. This partnership marks the region's first official OpenAI Services Partnership and aims to fast-track the integration of generative AI technologies within enterprises across APAC.

More than just a technology deployment, the initiative is designed to empower business leaders and organizations with the necessary expertise, frameworks, and tools to convert AI capabilities into tangible business outcomes. Central to the collaboration is ChatGPT Enterprise enablement alongside the development of next-generation Agentic AI applications tailored specifically for enterprise demands.

Stephanie Sy, Founder and CEO of Thinking Machines, emphasized the importance of leadership readiness, stating, "AI adoption is moving fast across Asia Pacific, but what many leaders need is not just more tools" — rather, "it’s the confidence, skills, and governance to actually make AI work for their people. This partnership with OpenAI is about creating real competitive advantage: helping organizations reimagine work, build AI-ready cultures, and unlock new productivity gains at scale."

The urgency of such efforts is underlined by recent studies. According to an IBM CEO survey, 61% of enterprises in APAC have adopted AI in some capacity, yet many struggle to translate this into significant business impact. In the Philippines, research by Boston Consulting Group reveals that although 80% of firms utilize AI, only a third report meaningful benefits. Identified challenges include insufficient training (23%), lack of clear adoption guidelines (19%), and scarcity of trustworthy partners (13%) — issues this partnership intends to resolve.

Andy Brown, Head of Go-to-Market for OpenAI in Asia Pacific, noted, "Executives across Asia Pacific are no longer asking if they should adopt AI, but how to make it deliver results. With Thinking Machines, we’re bringing our latest GPT-5 capabilities to the region in a way that helps leaders move quickly from experimentation to enterprise-wide impact."

The partnership leverages Thinking Machines’ experience in training over 10,000 professionals throughout APAC and will prioritize executive-level enablement. Initiatives include helping C-suite leaders develop "AI second brains" to enhance productivity and decision-making, while integrating governance and responsible AI practices within organizations.

In addition to executive coaching, the collaboration offers enterprise transformation services such as bespoke ChatGPT Enterprise integrations, workflow reengineering, and comprehensive change management support. The development of customized Agentic AI applications using OpenAI’s APIs is a key feature, embedding each client’s specific business logic into intelligent solutions that foster differentiation and sustainable growth.

Beyond direct client engagement, the alliance plans to influence the broader AI discourse regionally through joint white papers, executive roundtables, and industry forums addressing Asia Pacific’s unique cultural, linguistic, and regulatory challenges.

The launch phase targets key AI hotspots including Singapore, the Philippines, and Thailand, with ambitions to extend these initiatives across the wider APAC region. Focus sectors include financial services, retail, and manufacturing, where generative AI is expected to revolutionize business practices.

Stephanie Sy concluded, "AI transformation is not just about algorithms—it’s about leadership. This is about equipping executives with the vision and the tools to turn AI into a true driver of growth across Asia Pacific."