JAKARTA, 4 December 2024 – Policymakers, researchers, and development partners convened today in Jakarta for the Regional Workshop on “Research for Development in ASEAN: Towards Resilience, Inclusivity, and Preparedness”. The workshop explored the vital role of research in empowering policies that address the most pressing challenges facing ASEAN, such as climate change, socio-economic inequality, and public health.

“Today’s workshop provides a unique opportunity to deepen our understanding of how research can inform policy-making and shape decisions that will benefit our communities.” said Deputy-Secretary General of ASEAN for the Socio-Cultural Community, San Lwin. He further emphasised the importance of strengthening the collaboration among policymakers, dialogue partners, researchers and research networks within the region to collectively contribute to sustainable development in ASEAN.

Ambassador of Canada to ASEAN, Vicky Singmin underscored that Canada has long demonstrated its commitment to enhancing ASEAN economic, political-security and socio-cultural objectives for a more inclusive and sustainable ASEAN. She added: “Canada is delivering as an ASEAN Strategic Partner. By providing international assistance, Canada is deepening its cooperation with ASEAN to help strengthen the regional policy agenda, to reinforce ASEAN centrality and its institutions, and address shared regional development challenges together for a resilient ASEAN.”

The workshop featured a series of moderated panel discussions, each focusing on climate resilience, inclusive economic growth, and strengthening health systems. Experts shared their insights on how evidence-based policies can lead to tangible, positive outcomes for ASEAN, with an emphasis on fostering resilience in the face of global challenges.

“Inclusive, evidence-based, and collaborative knowledge drives meaningful, lasting change. For nearly five decades, Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has invested in high-quality research and innovative solutions in the ASEAN region to inform policymaking, build research capacity, and improve livelihoods. For IDRC this workshop not only highlights the policy-relevant research led by our partners in the region, but also serves as a critical step toward building consensus and informing future development research priorities to implement the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.” said Dr. Kapil Kapoor, Regional Director for Asia, IDRC.

The workshop aimed to strengthen regional cooperation and multi-stakeholder engagement in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth in ASEAN.

The event was led by the IDRC, with guidance from the ASEAN Secretariat and the Mission of Canada to ASEAN, and technical support from The Asia Foundation.