Kuala Lumpur: A total of 69 percent of online sellers in Malaysia show a high level of understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to research conducted by eCommerce platform, Lazada.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lazada stated in a report that this number aligns with the regional average of 68 percent, indicating that Malaysian online sellers are aware of AI’s presence. The research further uncovered that approximately 30 percent of sellers in Malaysia attempt to integrate AI into their operations. However, the actual implementation stands at only 26 percent, which is below the Southeast Asian average of 37 percent. While 89 percent of sellers in Southeast Asia recognize AI’s role in enhancing productivity, only 77 percent of Malaysian sellers share this view.
The research pointed out a disparity in the perceived usefulness of AI, with only half of Malaysian sellers confident in its benefits compared to almost two-thirds of their Southeast Asian counterparts. Additionally, while 87 percent of Malaysian sellers agree on AI’s potential for long-term cost savings, nearly two-thirds cite high costs and the time-consuming nature of implementation as significant barriers.
Lazada published its research report titled “Bridging the AI Gap: Online Seller Perceptions and Adoption Trends in Southeast Asia (SEA)” in collaboration with Kantar, surveying 1,214 eCommerce sellers across Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam to explore AI adoption trends, challenges, and opportunities.
According to Lazada, the importance of upskilling for AI in Malaysia is at 89 percent. However, a majority of sellers, at 67 percent, still indicate a preference for time-tested and commonly used methods. Lazada Group CEO James Dong highlighted the research’s revelation of a gap in the Southeast Asian eCommerce ecosystem. He noted that while most sellers in the region understand AI’s transformative potential, many are still transitioning.
“As a leading eCommerce platform in Southeast Asia, we aim to bridge the knowledge and adoption gap by developing AI solutions that are accessible and capable of addressing the unique challenges faced by sellers in various markets,” Dong stated.
To aid sellers in leveraging AI, Lazada launched the Online Sellers Artificial Intelligence Readiness Playbook, designed as a strategic guide based on the level of AI maturity among sellers. Lazada’s investment in AI is underscored by research showing that sellers are starting to utilize key AI-driven solutions on the platform to boost efficiency. This confirms the significance of Lazada’s investment in innovative AI tools that facilitate eCommerce operations.
Lazada reported that with 67 percent of sellers expressing high satisfaction with existing AI features on its platform, several new features based on Generative AI have been introduced. These include AI Smart Product Optimization, AI-Powered Translations, and Lazzie Seller, aimed at facilitating both sellers and customers.