Strengthening Anti-Corruption Efforts in the Asia-Pacific Region Through APEC Gatherings
On February 2, 2026, the International Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) was represented by Commissioner Mr. Woo Ying-ming at a significant APEC meeting held in Guangzhou. This event marks a crucial step in reinforcing cooperation among Asia-Pacific economies to tackle corruption, a commitment that has gained even more prominence given the current host nation's focus, China, during the APEC 2026 year.
During these meetings, almost all APEC member economies participated, underscoring the regional importance of collective anti-corruption efforts. Mr. Woo highlighted three essential themes prioritized at the conference: openness, innovation, and cooperation. These are intended to guide collaborative strategies aimed at fostering a stronger, corruption-free community within the Asia-Pacific region.
Reflecting on the ICAC's ongoing initiatives since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration on Fighting Corruption in 2014, Mr. Woo shared how the Commission has successfully collaborated with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Their partnership has seen the implementation of various international programs and events, including the 'Coding4Integrity Asian Youth Anti-Corruption Hackathon 2025' and a developmental program focusing on integrating artificial intelligence technologies into anti-corruption work.
Additionally, the ICAC has formalized relationships with other jurisdictions through multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), further enhancing the effectiveness of joint operations against corruption. As the region approaches the next Year of the Horse, a symbol of change and renewal, the ICAC is dedicated to deepening these relationships and leveraging the unique framework of the 'One Country, Two Systems' principle to fulfill the declaration’s objectives.
In attendance with Mr. Woo was Mr. Bryan Chong Ka-lok, Director of Investigation at the Operations Department, alongside other key ICAC personnel. Throughout the three-day meeting, ICAC representatives shared insights on using big data and artificial intelligence in corruption investigations and asset recovery efforts. By discussing technological advancements and innovative communication strategies, they showcased the potential for these tools to revolutionize current methods and enhance public engagement in anti-corruption efforts.
This APEC gathering not only sets the stage for ongoing discussions in the fight against corruption but also emphasizes the importance of proactive measures and technological adaptation in maintaining integrity across nations. As corruption poses a threat to development and governance, the ICAC’s engagement at these meetings signifies a commitment and readiness to lead and collaborate in efforts towards establishing transparent and accountable governance systems in the Asia-Pacific region. With such dedication to tackling these challenges, the hope for a cleaner, fairer society shines through the collaborative spirit fostered at this high-level conference.
During these meetings, almost all APEC member economies participated, underscoring the regional importance of collective anti-corruption efforts. Mr. Woo highlighted three essential themes prioritized at the conference: openness, innovation, and cooperation. These are intended to guide collaborative strategies aimed at fostering a stronger, corruption-free community within the Asia-Pacific region.
Reflecting on the ICAC's ongoing initiatives since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration on Fighting Corruption in 2014, Mr. Woo shared how the Commission has successfully collaborated with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Their partnership has seen the implementation of various international programs and events, including the 'Coding4Integrity Asian Youth Anti-Corruption Hackathon 2025' and a developmental program focusing on integrating artificial intelligence technologies into anti-corruption work.
Additionally, the ICAC has formalized relationships with other jurisdictions through multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), further enhancing the effectiveness of joint operations against corruption. As the region approaches the next Year of the Horse, a symbol of change and renewal, the ICAC is dedicated to deepening these relationships and leveraging the unique framework of the 'One Country, Two Systems' principle to fulfill the declaration’s objectives.
In attendance with Mr. Woo was Mr. Bryan Chong Ka-lok, Director of Investigation at the Operations Department, alongside other key ICAC personnel. Throughout the three-day meeting, ICAC representatives shared insights on using big data and artificial intelligence in corruption investigations and asset recovery efforts. By discussing technological advancements and innovative communication strategies, they showcased the potential for these tools to revolutionize current methods and enhance public engagement in anti-corruption efforts.
This APEC gathering not only sets the stage for ongoing discussions in the fight against corruption but also emphasizes the importance of proactive measures and technological adaptation in maintaining integrity across nations. As corruption poses a threat to development and governance, the ICAC’s engagement at these meetings signifies a commitment and readiness to lead and collaborate in efforts towards establishing transparent and accountable governance systems in the Asia-Pacific region. With such dedication to tackling these challenges, the hope for a cleaner, fairer society shines through the collaborative spirit fostered at this high-level conference.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.