The Effect of Internet Users on Sustainable Development Indicators: Evidence from Selected ASEAN Countries

Arif Imam Suroso; Hansen Tandra; Idqan Fahmi; Adi Haryono

doi:10.58915/aset.v4i2.2689

Authors

Arif Imam Suroso IPB University
Hansen Tandra IPB University
Idqan Fahmi IPB University
Adi Haryono IPB University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58915/aset.v4i2.2689

Keywords:

ASEAN, Business Analytics, Internet, Panel Regression, Sustainable Development

Abstract

The current priority worldwide is sustainable development to eliminate poverty, protect the environment, and promote prosperity and security for the world by 2030. The Internet could accelerate global growth due to involvement in individual and industry activities. However, the nexus between Internet users and sustainable development must be explored, especially in emerging and developing economies. This study intends to examine the influence of internet users on sustainable development in ASEAN, a rapidly expanding market in the global world, represented by economic growth, CO₂ emissions, and life expectancy rate. The panel regression was applied in this study in 7 selected ASEAN countries from 2003 to 2020. Surprisingly, the study revealed that internet users do not significantly affect economic growth. At the same time, it has a positive and significant effect on CO₂ emissions and life expectancy. As a result, ASEAN countries must regulate internet users' expansion concerning environmental and social performance indicators.

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