ASEAN needs a story that young people can own
ASEAN does not need to reinvent itself. It simply needs to communicate differently.
ASEAN does not need to reinvent itself, but rather needs to change the way it communicates, according to an old friend. After 16 years of separating paths, they recently reconnected over coffee. The friend, who now works in education, youth development and social innovation, observed that ASEAN seems uncool to young people. While ASEAN has achieved much in peace preservation, economic integration, and regional transformation over its six decades, its language of declarations, road maps and blueprints does not resonate with today's youth.
The speaker believes the issue lies not in ASEAN's shortcomings, but in its communication style. The region already excels in diversity, creativity, entrepreneurship, mobility, innovation and vibrant cultures. What is missing is a narrative that showcases these strengths in a relatable manner. The speaker suggests ASEAN needs to shift its approach, connecting with younger generations through human interest stories, experiences and shared aspirations.
Written by urgent.news from The Jakarta Post Academia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
