2 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

ANNUAL REPORT 2017 – 2018

A Resilient and Innovative

ASEAN Community

The ASEAN Secretariat

Jakarta
 The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was established on 8 August 1967. The Member
States of the Association are Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar,
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Viet Nam.
The ASEAN Secretariat is based in Jakarta, Indonesia.

For inquiries, contact:

The ASEAN Secretariat
Community Relations Division (CRD)
70A Jalan Sisingamangaraja
Jakarta 12110
Indonesia
Phone: (62 21) 724-3372, 726-2991
Fax: (62 21) 739-8234, 724-3504
E-mail: [email protected]

Catalogue-in-Publication Data
ASEAN Annual Report 2017-2018
Jakarta: ASEAN Secretariat, July 2018

352.1159
1. ASEAN – Association – Southeast Asia
2. Regional Organization – Annual Report
ISBN 978-602-5798-10-8

ASEAN: A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

Photo Credits
Cover : Jonathan Garcia (Flickr)
Back Cover : Carissa Bongalosa (Pexels)
Pages 8,29,31 : AHA Centre

Pages 10,12-14,16-19
17, 20-24, 26, 28, 30,
34, 32,35, 36, 38,
39,41, 42, : ASEAN Secretariat

Page 39 : Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia

Pages 44,45 : Hoang Viet Quan (Flickr)

The text of this publication may be freely quoted or reprinted, provided proper acknowledgement is given
and a copy containing the reprinted material is sent to the Community Relations Division (CRD) of the
ASEAN Secretariat, Jakarta.

General information on ASEAN appears online at the ASEAN Website: www.asean.org

Copyright Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) 2018.

All rights reserved.

4 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

 CONTENTS

Foreword ...................................................................................................... 06

ASEAN Political-Security Community Pillar (APSC)......................... 08

ASEAN Economic Community Pillar (AEC).......................................... 14

ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Pillar (ASCC)............................. 24

ASEAN Connectivity................................................................................... 32

ASEAN 50 and Outreach Efforts............................................................ 36

ASEAN Projects and Programmes.............................................................. 42

 FOREWORD

D
uring the period under review, the Association on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea,
of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) which has commenced with positive momentum. At
witnessed unprecedented developments in the same time, ASEAN has delivered humanitarian
some parts of the world that marked a turning point assistance, in a timely manner, to communities in
in current global trajectory. Among other things, need – both within and outside of the Southeast
the weakening of multilateral institutions, trade Asian region.
tensions, and unresolved flashpoints continue
to cast uncertainty over short-to-medium-term The ASEAN Economic Community was further
outlook, and carry policy implications for the region. reinforced through deeper market integration
On the flip side, the pickup in global growth gave and increased competitiveness in the region,
good cause for greater confidence. resulting in notable gains in customs, standards,
and trade facilitation. Efforts to negotiate the new
Against this backdrop, the ASEAN remains ASEAN Trade in Services Agreement also gained
steadfast in promoting regional peace, security, and momentum. At the same time, ASEAN continued
prosperity, and in collectively addressing common to strengthen its external economic relations,
challenges. Last year, the Association marked a through the progressive negotiations for the
significant milestone as it commemorated its 50th Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership,
anniversary on 8 August 2017. as well as the signing of the ASEAN-Hong Kong,
China Free Trade and Investment Agreements.
ASEAN, together with its external partners, The First Protocol to Amend the ASEAN-
has worked to ensure that the year 2017-2018 Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership
continued to be replete with tangible results in Agreement is being finalised, which will facilitate
its community building efforts. Various ASEAN- the incorporation of services, investment, and
led mechanisms such as the ASEAN Plus Ones, movement of natural persons chapters, while
ASEAN Plus Three, East Asia Summit, ASEAN the general review of the ASEAN-Australia New
Regional Forum, and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Zealand Free Trade Agreement is ongoing.
Meeting Plus, continue to play an important role
in shaping an open, transparent and rules-based To support market integration, sectoral cooperation
regional architecture. in various areas and sectors has intensified.
Priorities to promote the Micro, Small and Medium
ASEAN’s shared commitments to regional peace, Enterprises sector were further strengthened with
stability and security have been translated into a focus on women’s economic empowerment,
numerous initiatives on the ground to tackle inclusive business, and streamlining business
transnational crime, violent extremism, terrorism, registration processes. Ensuring food security as
and radicalism. A more coordinated cross-sectoral well as energy security also continued to support
approach toward security continues to be pursued. the region’s sustainable development. Meanwhile,
Work has also been undertaken in a wide range of regional connectivity – in terms of infrastructure
issues such as drug control, consular assistance, and people-to-people connection – was further
and defence cooperation. enhanced through significant progress made in the
transport, information-communication technology,
ASEAN has also continued its proactive role in and tourism sectors.
managing regional issues, such as the negotiations

6 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

The ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community pillar
made substantial progress in enhancing the
well-being of ASEAN’s peoples, notably through
the forging of the “ASEAN Consensus on the
Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant
Workers.” Separately, declarations covering the
promotion of a region-wide culture of prevention,
gender-responsive implementation of the
ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and the UN
Sustainable Development Goals, anti-microbial
resistance, ending malnutrition, and disaster health
management, were issued during the past year. On
climate change, plans are underway to convene
a special ministerial meeting and a stakeholder
partnership conference this year.

I am glad to note that our progress to date has been

achieved with the support from robust monitoring
and evaluation frameworks as well as engagement
mechanisms with multiple stakeholders including
the business community and development
partners.

The theme of “Resilient and Innovative” under

Singapore’s Chairmanship in 2018 is fitting in
continuing the momentum of ASEAN Community
DATO LIM JOCK HOI
building efforts, and towards building long-term
Secretary-General of ASEAN
regional resilience. Going forward, ASEAN will
continue to work towards its long term vision, i.e.,
by building the region’s readiness for megatrends
like the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and resilience
towards challenges such as inequality and climate
change. The ultimate aim shall be to build an
ASEAN Community that offers security, prosperity,
and benefits to its peoples, and one where its
citizens embrace the regional identity with pride.

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 7

T
he goal of the ASEAN Political-Security in Persons, Especially Women and Children
Community (APSC) Pillar is to create (ACTIP).
a people-oriented, people-centred
community in a peaceful, secure, and stable Most importantly, ASEAN reached out to several
region. A major milestone was achieved in 2017 displaced communities, such as in Marawi,
when ASEAN observed its golden jubilee – Philippines, and the Rakhine State, Myanmar. The
an occasion to celebrate 50 years of work by ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian
ASEAN on behalf of its people and the region. Assistance on Disaster Management (AHA
Multiple initiatives implemented with tangible Centre) has continued to work with the
results have brought ASEAN closer to the people Myanmar Government-led mechanism to deliver
and have made the region safe and stable for the humanitarian assistance to all displaced persons
people to enjoy. without discrimination. ASEAN is looking
forward to the expeditious commencement of
Bringing ASEAN Closer to the People the voluntary return of displaced persons to
Myanmar in a safe, secure, and dignified way
To bring ASEAN closer to those it serves, without undue delay. Indeed, ASEAN stressed
Meetings of the ASEAN Directors-General of the need to find a comprehensive and durable
Immigration Departments and the Heads of solution to address the root causes of the
the Consular Affairs Divisions of the Ministries conflict and to create a conducive environment
of Foreign Affairs (DGICM) have continuously so that members of the affected communities
addressed issues relevant to the movement might rebuild their lives. ASEAN is continuously
of people from the perspective of immigration working to be an inclusive and responsive
and consular affairs. For the benefit of their community that can address challenges quickly
peoples, ASEAN Member States are currently and effectively.
ratifying the ASEAN Visa Framework Agreement
on Visa Exemption. Discussions also continue Ensuring Regional Peace and Stability
on developing draft Guidelines on Consular
Assistance by ASEAN Member States Missions For the last half century, ASEAN has been committed
in Third Countries to Nationals of Other ASEAN to ensuring regional peace, security, and stability to
Member States, the ASEAN Business Travel promote economic growth for the betterment of its
Card (BTC) and the ASEAN Common Visa. people. While ASEAN’s efforts and achievements
in security may not be always physically felt, people
To mark ASEAN’s 50th anniversary, the ASEAN in the region have enjoyed a peace dividend that
Intergovernmental Commission on Human ASEAN has brought about through tireless work to
Rights (AICHR) published a special edition ensure that the region remains stable and secure.
of AICHR: What You Need to Know – A These benefits have been made possible by the
Compendium to increase public awareness. adoption of a comprehensive approach to security
Similarly, the Youth Debates on Human Rights that has enhanced ASEAN’s capacity to deal with
organised by AICHR aimed to enhance public existing and emerging challenges.
awareness of human rights among the people
of ASEAN. Among its efforts to build a people- Recognising the increasing threats of terrorism,
centred community, AICHR, in collaboration with violent extremism, and radicalisation; ASEAN has
other sectoral bodies, developed the ASEAN worked to safeguard the interests of its people.
Enabling Masterplan 2025: Mainstreaming the This is evident from the adoption of a number of
Rights of Persons with Disabilities and conducted key documents at the 11th ASEAN Ministerial
a Cross-Sectoral Consultation on Human-Rights Meeting on Transnational Crime in (AMMTC) in
Based Instrument Related to the Implementation September 2017, such as the updated ASEAN
of the ASEAN Convention Against Trafficking Comprehensive Plan of Action on Countering

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 9

 ASEAN Leaders at the 32nd ASEAN Summit, Singapore, April 2018

Terrorism (ACPoA on CT) and the Manila and prevent spillover to other nations. ASEAN
Declaration to Counter the Rise of Radicalisation also continues to produce its annual ASEAN
and Violent Extremism. These documents, among Drug Monitoring Report covering regional trends
others, show ASEAN’s commitment to addressing and problems. These are undertaken by ASEAN
the root causes of terrorism and to reducing the to protect its people and communities from the
vulnerability of its people to radicalisation. harmful effects of drug-related crimes.

The ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on The defence sector is also ensuring the security
Transnational Crime’s cooperation expanded to and well-being of the people by addressing non-
cover people smuggling and the illicit trafficking traditional security challenges. Practical cooperation
of wildlife and timber. To enhance its capacity was enhanced in October 2017 with the launch of
against cyber-security threats, the ADMM-Plus Phase 1 of the ASEAN Direct Communications
(ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus) Experts’ Infrastructure (ADI), covering secure voice and
Working Group on Cyber Security (EWG on CS) fax communication, under the ASEAN Defence
was inaugurated in mid-2017 and the ASEAN Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) framework. Through
Regional Forum (ARF) established an Inter- the ADI, a framework is currently in place for two
Sessional Meeting on Security of and in the Use ASEAN Defence Ministers to communicate and
of Information and Communications Technologies arrive at mutual decisions when facing crises or
(ISM on ICTs Security) in August 2017 to discuss emergencies related to maritime security. The
cyber-security confidence-building measures. significance and success of this effort was affirmed
by ongoing discussions to begin work on Phase
Under the aegis of the ASEAN Senior Officials on 2 on secure e-mail communication. Further, the
Drug Matters (ASOD), the ASEAN Cooperation ADMM-Plus will be held on a yearly basis from
Plan to Tackle Illicit Drug Production and Trafficking 2018 to enhance dialogue and cooperation with
in the Golden Triangle 2017-2019 is expected to the Plus Countries via a platform that is led and
curb illicit drug problems in the Golden Triangle driven by ASEAN.

10 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

To promote regional peace and stability, ASEAN established in 2017 as ASEAN conferred the
has been active in maintaining the South status of Sectoral Dialogue Partner on Turkey.
China Sea as a sea of peace, prosperity, and ASEAN also agreed to accept Argentina’s
cooperation. ASEAN has intensified its dialogue request to accede to the Treaty of Amity
and cooperation with China to ensure the full and and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (TAC). In
effective implementation of the Declaration on addition, ASEAN continuously receives requests
the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea to accede to the TAC and to establish formal
partnerships, demonstrating ASEAN’s value to
(DOC). In April 2017, the MFA-to-MFA Hotline to
countries and organisations beyond the region.
Respond to Maritime Emergencies in Southeast
In the same vein, ASEAN Defence Ministers
Asia was successfully tested and operationalised.
adopted the Second Additional Protocol to the
In addition, March 2018 marked the start of the
Concept Papers on the Establishment of the
official negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the
ADMM and ADMM-Plus, paving the way for non-
South China Sea (COC), following the adoption of
Plus Countries to observe activities.
the COC framework in August 2017.
The Next 50 Years
United and Relevant in an Evolving
Regional Architecture Looking to the next half century, ASEAN
anticipates growing uncertainties in the global
Over the last 50 years, ASEAN has remained
strategic environment and increasingly complex
united, despite challenges from the unpredictable
non-traditional and transnational security
dynamics of power relations in the region and
challenges. Consequently, the ASEAN Leaders’
beyond. Maintaining ASEAN Centrality is one
Vision for a Resilient and Innovative ASEAN,
of the greatest achievements of ASEAN, as it
which sets out the principles and deliverables to
enables the ASEAN to take the lead in shaping
prepare ASEAN for the future, was adopted at
the regional landscape.
the 32nd ASEAN Summit in April 2018.
ASEAN’s work to preserve Centrality has been
For the APSC Pillar, resilience requires
manifested by responding quickly and effectively
strengthening ASEAN Centrality and ­
­ unity,
to emergencies in the region, projecting a unified
­particularly in promoting its interests with ­respect
position on issues of common interest, and
to external actors. It is crucial for A
­ SEAN to play
ensuring that ASEAN’s collective interests are not
a key role in developing the evolving geopolitical
compromised. Consequently, during the period
of this report, a number of ASEAN Ministerial strategic architecture. This means that ASEAN-
Statements were issued, including those on the led mechanisms, such as the EAS, the ARF and
DPRK’s missile and nuclear tests, terror attacks the ­ADMM-Plus have to be inclusive, transparent,
in Pakistan and Iraq, the situation in Al-Haram and, most importantly, proactive in promoting co­
Al-Sharif Compound, and the earthquakes in operation and addressing emerging c ­ hallenges
Mexico. in a timely manner. Likewise, ASEAN’s external
relations need to be conducted practically,
At the age of 50, ASEAN continues to pursue aligning ASEAN-­Dialogue Partners’ c ­ ooperation
outward-looking policies to deepen relations work plans with ASEAN Community Blueprints.
with its Dialogue Partners and other external To enhance regional peace and s­ ecurity, ­ASEAN
partners in various fields to realise the ASEAN must increase its capabilities and readiness in
Community Vision 2025. Among others, in addressing non-traditional s­ecurity challenges
2017 ASEAN commemorated its anniversaries such as terrorism, ­violent e­ xtremism and cyber
with Canada, the European Union, India, and threats. In this regard, the ASEAN Leaders’
the United States and ASEAN Plus Three Statement on Cyber-­Security Cooperation was
through numerous celebratory activities and adopted at the 32nd ASEAN Summit. Through
joint statements. A new formal partnership was enhanced ­cyber-security cooperation and capacity

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 11

 Representatives of ASEAN Member States at the 17th ASEAN Political-Security Community Council Meeting

building, ASEAN envisions a secure and resilient

cyberspace that supports economic growth and Jos Quyền of Viet Nam, an
greater regional connectivity. aspiring ASEAN youth leader,
has been inspired by his own
As ASEAN looks ahead, the ASEAN Chair for 2018 experiences to encourage his
proposed establishing an ASEAN Smart Cities fellow young people to get to
Network (ASCN) to synergise development and know ASEAN, be involved with
catalyse technologies for growth and sustainable other youths, and learn the same
development. By leveraging technological invaluable lessons he has. Jos started by joining
advances, ASEAN hopes to improve the lives the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth
and livelihoods of its people. The ASCN is Program (SSEAYP) youth exchange programme.
also expected to enhance cooperation and He then won first prize at the ASEAN Foundation’s
­understanding between ASEAN and its external ASEAN Youth Video Contest 2016 with a video
partners as they work closely to drive the de­ about volunteering. This led Jos to take part in the
velopment of smart cities for their mutual benefit. ASEAN Foundation Model ASEAN Meeting, which
instilled in him the courage needed to speak – in
To forge greater regional cooperation over the English – about ASEAN for a TED talk session.
next 50 years, it is crucial for ASEAN to maintain “Even after a year of knowing ASEAN, I can’t believe
its Centrality and remain resilient against the threats that ASEAN has changed me a lot. It brought me
that come from an uncertain future. Community- friends, cultural understanding, opportunities in
building efforts must focus on people as the main leadership, public speaking, and communication.
beneficiaries of ASEAN’s initiatives. ASEAN needs As a youth leader in many exchange programmes,
to produce tangible benefits for its people, as this ASEAN is a chance for me to raise my voice as
will make ASEAN’s existence more relevant and a young person in the community,” Jos shared
appreciated. during his TED talk.

12 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 13
A
s the ASEAN Economic Community Approval Control for the weighing and measuring
(AEC) Blueprint 2025 entered its third year instruments have been endorsed.
of implementation, ASEAN continues its
focus on fostering long-term competitiveness On the liberalisation of services, the Protocol to
and sustainability, driven by the Chairmanship Implement the 10th Package of Commitments
themes of “inclusive and innovation-led growth” under the ASEAN Framework Agreement on
and “resilient and innovative” in 2017 and 2018, Services (AFAS) is targeted for signing in 2018.
respectively. ASEAN is also entering to the next stage of
service integration through the negotiations of
Achievements in Implementing the the ASEAN Trade in Services Agreement (ATISA).
AEC Blueprint 2025 In parallel, efforts to promote the mobility of
services professionals were continued by the
By 2018, 98.7% of intra-ASEAN tariffs have been review of the ASEAN Agreement on Movement of
eliminated, while ASEAN continues to advance Natural Persons (MNP) and the implementation
its trade facilitation work. Recent milestones of various MRAs for professional services.
include the live operation of the ASEAN Single Implementation of the ASEAN Qualifications
Window (ASW) on 1 January 2018 for Indonesia, Reference Framework (AQRF) has also started.
Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Viet Nam; the
commencement of preparations in December On investment, another milestone was reached
2017 to implement the ASEAN Customs Transit with the signing of the 2nd and 3rd Protocols to
System (ACTS) Pilot Project in Cambodia, Lao Amend the ASEAN Comprehensive Investment
PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam; and the entering Agreement (ACIA), which addressed several
of the final stage of the operationalisation of the items from the ACIA’s built-in agenda. The
ASEAN-Wide Self Certification (AWSC) Scheme. Focused and Strategic (FAST) Action Agenda
on Investment – a priority deliverable under the
Meanwhile, ten National Trade Repositories Philippines’ Chairmanship in 2017 – has also
(NTRs) are up and running and are being linked been implemented through several initiatives
with the ASEAN Trade Repository (ATR), which aligned with ACIA’s four pillars: investment
offers a one-stop platform for trade and customs liberalisation, facilitation, promotion, and
regulations laws and other relevant information. protection.
The ASEAN Solutions for Investments,
Services, and Trade (ASSIST) mechanism is On financial integration, the Protocol to
fully operational for trade in goods, providing Implement the 8th Package of Commitments on
businesses with a no-cost online consultation Financial Services under AFAS is targeted for
platform for the expedited resolution of cross- signing by the end of 2018, while the Roadmap
border issues related to implementing ASEAN for ASEAN Insurance Integration Framework is
economic agreements. being finalised. Significant progress has been
achieved in financial services liberalisation,
To address Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), capital accounts liberalisation, capital markets
good progress has been made in implementing development, payment and settlement systems,
the ASEAN Sectoral Mutual Recognition insurance cooperation, and financial inclusion.
Arrangement (MRA) for Good Manufacturing
Practice (GMP) for medicinal products and ASEAN continues to strengthen legal and
the MRA for Bioequivalence Study Reports of institutional structures through, among others,
Generic Medicinal Products. Separately, the self-assessments of competition law regimes
MRA for Inspection and Certification Systems on undertaken by Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar,
Food Hygiene for Prepared Foodstuff Products the Philippines, Singapore and Viet Nam and
has been signed while the Guidelines on Type the commencement of similar assessments

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 15

 ASEAN deepens its support of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises at the economic core of ASEAN Member States.

on consumer protection laws and regulations. frameworks and eco-systems to promote Inclusive
The Handbook on Competition Policy and Law Businesses. Meanwhile, ASEAN promoted
in ASEAN for Businesses 2017 was published Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) by
in its fourth edition, while consumer protection adopting an Action Agenda to mainstream
received a boost with the endorsement of the WEE in ASEAN, publishing a policy handbook
ASEAN High-Level Principles on Consumer on Strengthening Women’s Entrepreneurship
Protection (AHLPCP) at the 49th AEM Meeting in in ASEAN, and by convening a conference for
September 2017. Improvements to Intellectual women entrepreneurs.
Property (IP) services delivery remain important.
To identify issues connected to improving ASEAN’s integration with the global economy
turnaround times for IP registration, several continued with the signing of the ASEAN-Hong
diagnostics studies on trademarks and designs Kong China Free Trade Agreement (AHKFTA) and
were completed while diagnostics on patents ASEAN–HKC Investment Agreement (AHKIA) by
are underway. Other important milestones in all Parties. The Protocol to Amend the ASEAN-
IP include creating publishing the trademark Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership
and design examination manuals, as well Agreement is being finalised to incorporate
as implementing online filing systems for IP Chapters on Trade in Services, Movement of
registration in seven ASEAN Member States. Natural Persons, and Investment. The Stage
One General Review of the ASEAN-Australia
Three new initiatives reinforced ASEAN’s New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA)
commitment to Micro, Small, and Medium was concluded in August 2017 and Stage Two
Enterprises (MSME) development in 2017. The of the General Review will focus on follow-up
ASEAN Mentorship for Entrepreneurs Network recommendations.
(AMEN) facilitated the scaling up of micro and
small entrepreneurs through the power of 3Ms The Regional Comprehensive Economic
(mentors, money, and markets). The Inclusive Partnership (RCEP) negotiations continue to be
Business Framework helped create enabling given utmost priority. The first RCEP Summit was

16 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

held on 13 November 2017 where the Leaders Agreement on Services (AFAS), Protocol 3 on
instructed Ministers and negotiators to intensify Domestic Code-Share Rights between points
efforts in 2018 to bring the RCEP negotiations within the territory of any other ASEAN Member
to conclusion. To date 22 rounds of negotiations States, and the Mutual Recognition Arrangement
have taken place. RCEP Ministers have recently (MRA) on Flight Crew Licensing.
agreed to work with a greater focus on finding
breakthroughs for conclusion of the RCEP Ratification of Protocol 1 (Designation of Transit
negotiations, in line with the RCEP Leaders’ Transport Routes and Facilities) of the ASEAN
mandate in 2017. Framework Agreement on the Facilitation of
Goods in Transit (AFAFGIT) on 5 February 2018
In addition, ASEAN has launched formal talks paves the way for full ratification of the ASEAN
with the EU on setting up the parameters for Framework Agreement on the Facilitation of
the Framework for a future ASEAN-EU FTA. Inter-State Transport (AFAFIST), which would
ASEAN is also working with Canada to finalise further promote the cross-border movement of
a Joint Feasibility Study for a potential ASEAN- goods.
Canada FTA. Separately, a Memorandum of
Understanding between ASEAN and the Eurasian The ASEAN International Mobile Roaming (IMR)
Economic Commission is under development to Framework was adopted in November 2017
promote closer economic cooperation. to provide travellers and businesspersons with
transparent and more affordable access to
On connectivity and integration, four transport international mobile roaming services in the
agreements have been signed: the ASEAN region. The Work Plan for the development of an
Framework Agreement on the Facilitation of ASEAN Framework on Digital Data Governance
Cross Border Transport of Passengers by Road was endorsed to engender trust in the collection
Vehicles (CBTP), the Protocol to Implement of data and its use by businesses and to
the Tenth Package of Commitments on Air encourage the innovation and adoption of digital
Transport Services under the ASEAN Framework solutions.

ASEAN endorses best practices for agricultural and marine products to boost competitiveness.

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 17

 Development is well underway for the ASEAN accessibility of gas regionally. Projects are
Agreement on Electronic Commerce, a underway to pursue a wider framework for power
priority deliverable under Singapore’s ASEAN trading in the region, as well to advance the role
Chairmanship and part of the ASEAN Work of natural gas, the intra-ASEAN coal trade, and
Programme on Electronic Commerce (AWPEC) the promotion of cleaner coal technologies.
2017-2025. The Agreement aims to facilitate
cross-border e-commerce transactions and To develop the region’s mineral resources, a
deepen cooperation between ASEAN Member Reporting Mechanism to Monitor the Adoption
States to establish a legal and regulatory of Sustainability Frameworks and Tools by
environment that engenders confidence in ASEAN Member States was initiated in 2017.
e-commerce to drive regional economic growth The inaugural ASEAN Mineral Awards in 2017
and social development. recognised eight regional mining companies;
aiming to document, disseminate and increase
Energy security within the framework of the replicability of their best practices. A stock-
sustainable development has been pursued take of AMS policies on abandoned and closed
on diverse fronts, addressing both supply and mines is underway, while concerted efforts to
use. Renewable energy currently comprises meet sustainability goals are made through
13.6% of the ASEAN energy mix. Efficiency and addressing mining’s impact on people and
conservation measures have targeted major communities, looking to enhance mining’s social
consumers and electrical appliances, yielding an license to develop the region’s vast mineral
18.6% reduction in energy intensity from 2005 resources, and boost trade and investment.
levels. Multilateral electricity trade was made
possible in 2017 between Lao PDR, Malaysia,
and Thailand, while open access for gas facilities
in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia in
2017 is expected to improve
the security and

ASEAN Declaration on Innovation provides regional policy direction on strengthening impacts of science, technology and innovation.

18 Resilientand
A Resilient andInnovative
Innovative ASEAN
ASEAN Community
Community
The ASEAN Ministers of Agriculture and Tourism continues to be a strategic sector for
Forestry (AMAF) have endorsed several ASEAN. Tourism Ministers adopted the ASEAN
ASEAN Agricultural Best Practices, including Tourism Strategic Plan’s (ATSP) two-year
Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP) for Work Plan for 2018-2019, the ASEAN Tourism
Layers and Broilers in ASEAN Countries, Good Marketing Strategy (ATMS) 2017-2020, the Joint
Agricultural Practices (GAP) for Production of Declaration on Gastronomy Tourism as well as
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables in ASEAN Countries the ASEAN Declaration on Cruise Tourism, the
and Guidelines on ASEAN Good Aquaculture last one is an economic priority deliverables for
Practices (GAqP) for Food Fish to support the Singapore’s 2018 ASEAN Chairmanship. Under
competitiveness of ASEAN agricultural products the Mutual Recognition Arrangement on Tourism
in regional and world markets. These standards Professionals (MRA-TP), 242 toolboxes for all
are the basis for determining the equivalence divisions have been fully developed, with training
of existing national standards or as blueprints completed for all Master Trainers and Master
for AMS currently without national standards Assessors. The Visit ASEAN@50 Campaign
systems in place. Work remains to implement was successfully implemented, as witnessed
these standards at the regional and national by 125 million international visitor arrivals, which
levels so as to increase buyer confidence and exceeded a target of 121 million and generated
demand, promote uptake at the farm level, USD 93 billion in revenue. The success was
and to foster appropriate levels of cross-border attributed to the Visit ASEAN@50 microsite,
protection. promotional events, the active participation of
individual AMS, and support by international
partners, among others.

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 19

 AEC Blueprint 2025 themes are inclusion, inclusive-driven growth, resiliency and innovation

Recognising the importance of Science, disaster risk reduction, and climate change
Technology and Innovation (STI) to foster adaptation.
sustainable economic growth, job creation, and
well-being, ASEAN Leaders adopted the ASEAN AEC 2025 Monitoring and Evaluation
Declaration on Innovation to provide regional
policy direction on strengthening STI’s impact. All 23 AEC sectoral work plans (SWPs) to
support implementation of the AEC Blueprint
While the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological 2025 have been adopted by sectoral ministerial
Centre (ASMC) leads the conduct of the biannual bodies and endorsed by the AEC Council. The
ASEAN Climate Outlook Forum, several other AEC 2025 Consolidated Strategic Action Plan
centres or networks were created in 2017 to (CSAP) – a single reference for key action
support science, technology and innovation. items drawn from the AEC sectoral work plans
The ASEAN Large Nuclear and Synchrotron – was made public in February 2017 and will
Network, for example, was established to be updated in 2018.
promote sharing of nuclear, synchrotron, and
other related facilities that typically require huge Implementation of the AEC Blueprint 2025
infrastructure investments for broad-based has been supported by the operationalisation
scientific, and technology research. of the AEC 2025 Monitoring and Evaluation
Meanwhile, the ASEAN Network for Nuclear (M&E) Framework including the development
Power Safety Research was established to of monitoring tools and databases. One key
enhance understanding of nuclear safety issues tool is the ASEAN Secretariat’s Country Visit
through advanced modelling and analysis to mechanism to verify AMS compliance with
guide policies for energy security, emergency AEC commitments as well track potential links
medical response planning, and nuclear disaster between national-level initiatives, the regional
management and mitigation. The ASEAN integration agenda and other challenges.
Hydroinformatics and Climate Data Centre was Two country visits were conducted in 2017 in
established to promote the implementation Philippines and Indonesia, and two have been
of hydroinformatics and related technologies planned for 2018.
for efficient water management, water-related

20 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

The inaugural edition of the biannual ASEAN to respond proactively to emerging statistical
Economic Integration Brief (AEIB) was needs. Recognising the importance of
released in June 2017, aiming to inform the user-producer engagement, an online User
public on progress in the ASEAN economic Satisfaction Survey is currently under way to
integration and relevant global and regional obtain feedbacks for further improvements
developments. A second edition followed in the quality of the statistics produced by
in November 2017. Additional publications ASEANstats.
were also released, among others, the Global
Megatrends: Implications for the ASEAN Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI)
Economic Community, A Journey Towards
Regional Economic Integration: 1967–2017, Since its adoption in September 2016, the IAI
Celebrating ASEAN: 50 Years of Evolution and Work Plan III has given a start to 27 projects,
Progress. worth USD 10 million, through the support of
ASEAN-6 and ASEAN Partners. These projects
The ASEAN Community Statistical System mainly help Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar
(ACSS), which implements the ACSS and Viet Nam (CLMV) to implement regional
Strategic Plan 2016-2025, continues to commitments in five strategic areas: food and
strengthen regional statistical cooperation agriculture, trade facilitation, MSMEs, education,
and create timely, comparable, and reliable as well as health and well-being. There were
statistics. In addition to harmonising also activities service to increase understanding
statistics for international merchandise trade, of CLMV officials on key issues including public
international trade in services, and foreign policy and administration, through sharing of
direct investment; a roadmap for harmonising experiences by the more developed ASEAN
statistics related to the System of National Member States.
Accounts (SNA) has been developed. Similar
work is underway for sustainable development An assessment of the Attachment Programme
goals (SDG) indicators. of CLMV officials at the ASEAN Secretariat was
conducted in 2017 to evaluate outcomes since
The ACSS is developing a Protocol for New its launch in 2001. According to the assessment,
Data Requests from ASEAN Sectoral Bodies participating CLMV officials increased their

Initiative for ASEAN Integration projects help Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam to implement regional commitments.

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 21

 Science, technology and innovation are important to foster sustainable economic growth.

knowledge of ASEAN regional cooperation these farmers were able to sell their beans at
and established connections with the ASEAN double the market price.
Secretariat, other ASEAN officials, and partners.
The experience also increased the officials’
confidence, particularly in expressing their
positions at ASEAN meetings, and developed
Budding Laotian agripreneur
skills that were relevant to their work.
Phoutthasone Phaengvilay –
Noy for short – didn’t realise
Among other projects implemented in 2017 was how many other people were
the “Support to the IAI within the Framework concerned about the aging
of the ASEAN Single Market”, a three-year population of farmers. Noy
project that has been providing assistance to says she had an eye-opening
Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam. experience at the ASEAN-EU Youth Forum
The project aided the digital recording of existing for Youth Engagement in Food Production
hard-copy registrations in Lao PDR as well as and Value Chains, which was organized
introduced online registration and licensing by the ASEAN Foundation and the ASEAN
systems in Cambodia and Myanmar. These data Farmers’ Organisation Support Programme.
and assessments are important for the countries As an entrepreneur, Noy makes almost six
to develop appropriate policies and national times as much as a civil servant does – and
strategic plans to provide better health services has the flexibility to manage her working
to their people. hours. Noy strongly advocates for the young
people of ASEAN to use agriculture to drive
IAI activities also assisted targeted groups their livelihoods forward. “If you have a
to implement regional initiatives, such as the good business plan to guide you, then your
ASEAN Good Agriculture Practice (GAP) which business can be successful,” Noy said.
aims at preventing or minimising the risk of
hazards for targeted groups in areas such as
food safety, environmental impact, workers’
health, safety and welfare, and produce quality.
Through the Standards in the Southeast Asian
Food Trade (SAFT) project, 240 coffee farmers
in Myanmar were trained and certified in Good
Agriculture Practice. With the GAP certification,

22 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 23
 he ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community on “Culture of Prevention”’ for a Peaceful,
(ASCC), known as the “People Pillar” of Inclusive, Resilient, Healthy, and Harmonious
ASEAN, envisions an ASEAN Community Society. It demonstrates a significant shift in how
that engages and benefits the people – and the region addresses violence by promoting a
which is inclusive, sustainable, resilient, and preventative mind-set and by addressing the
dynamic. underlying causes of violence. The Culture of
Prevention provides a mandate for ASEAN
ASSC’s work on human and sustainable to engage sectoral bodies and relevant
development in the region covers diverse areas, stakeholders in investing in long-term upstream
such as education, health, labour, social welfare, preventive actions to ensure that violence, in its
rural development and poverty eradication, various manifestations, is prevented rather than
empowerment, the protection and promotion just addressed.
of the rights of women and children, culture and
the arts, information, sports, the environment, The ASCC also championed several outcome
transboundary haze pollution, civil service, documents adopted at the 31st ASEAN Summit
and disaster management and humanitarian in 2017 that expressed the Leaders’ resolve
assistance. to ensure that regional integration will accord
benefits and protection for all, including informal
ASEAN’s 50th anniversary, with the theme sector workers, women and children, disaster
“Partnering for Change, Engaging the World”, victims, and other vulnerable populations.
steered the direction of work for ASCC’s sectoral
bodies and inspired significant accomplishments On health cooperation, ASEAN Leaders adopted
to buttress the ASCC Pillar. As a prime mover Declarations on Anti-Microbial Resistance
for an inclusive ASEAN community where no one (AMR), Ending All Forms of Malnutrition, and
is left behind – and where everyone enjoys and Disaster Health Management (DHM). This
shares the fruits of regional integration – ASCC political commitment stimulated localisation and
championed landmark policy frameworks that operationalisation of ongoing and upcoming
solidified the commitment of ASEAN Member activities at the regional, national, and community
States to inclusive and sustainable development levels.
through stronger regional cooperation and
coherent national initiatives. On labour, ASEAN continues to promote
decent work agenda. Following the signing of
Most notable is the ASEAN Consensus on the the ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Statement on
Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Migrant Improving Occupational Safety and Health for
Workers. The Consensus reflects the Leaders’
Sustainable Economic Growth in September
commitment to strengthening social protections,
2017, the aspirations in the Statement are being
improving access to justice, increasing humane
addressed through concrete initiatives including
and fair treatment, and boosting access to health
services for migrant workers in the regions. the biennial ASEAN-OSHNET Awards presented
To sustain this momentum, an Action Plan will in April 2018 in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The
be finalised to implement these commitments Regional Action Plan of the Vientiane Declaration
with concrete initiatives, to be adopted by the on Transition from Informal Employment to
Ministers of Labour and noted by the Leaders at Formal Employment towards Decent Work
the 33rd ASEAN Summit in 2018. Promotion in ASEAN was adopted by the
ASEAN Labour Ministers in April 2018 and its
Another landmark document adopted in 2017 implementation has started.
and led by the ASCC was the ASEAN Declaration

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 25

 More concretely, the declarations are expected On education, ASEAN demonstrated that it
to accelerate evidence-based multi-sectoral cares for the needs of out-of-school children
and multi-stakeholder actions focused on and youths by following through on the ASEAN
vulnerable and disadvantaged groups. The Declaration on Strengthening Education for
declarations are also anticipated to strengthen Out-of-School Children and Youth (OOSCY)
human and institutional capacities for planning with proposals covering the strengthening of
and evaluation, policy analysis and advocacy, OOSCY statistics, regional advocacy, and the
research and surveillance, and service development of equivalency frameworks for
delivery, while boosting public investment and basic education.
cooperation.
The ASCC also made headway in pursuing a
On social welfare and development, ASEAN sustainable ASEAN. Regional efforts built on
has continued to ensure that marginalized concrete environmental measures and initiatives
groups are considered. ASEAN has developed have been ramped up to ensure a balance
policies to mainstream the rights of persons between development and sustainability.
with disabilities in the ASEAN Community, to ASEAN continues to focus on conservation,
protect children against violence, and to end the sustainable use of natural resources,
the sexual exploitation and abuse of children. environmentally sustainable cities, the coastal
The Declaration on Gender-Responsive and marine environment, and sustainable
Implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision consumption and production, among other
2025 and the Sustainable Development Goals, things.
both adopted by the Leaders in 2017, aim to
ensure that all women and girls in ASEAN can
reach their fullest potential.

26 Resilientand
A Resilient andInnovative
Innovative ASEAN
ASEAN Community
Community
To deal with transboundary haze, ASEAN to ensure that ASEAN remains a vibrant and
has intensified cooperation under the ASEAN dynamic community where people can live,
Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution work, and play. The priorities and ongoing work
(AATHP) aiming to achieve a haze-free ASEAN of the ASCC Pillar for 2018 include promoting
by 2020. ASEAN is also finalising a draft green jobs, mainstreaming the rights of persons
Agreement on the Establishment of ASEAN with disabilities, and promoting cyber wellness.
Coordinating Centre for Transboundary Haze These priorities will be translated into outcome
Pollution Control. Tackling climate change is documents to be elevated at the 33rd ASEAN
also a priority, and an ASEAN Climate Change Summit in November 2018.
Partnership Conference and Special ASEAN
Ministerial Meeting on Climate Action (SAMCA) In line with enhancing resilience, ASEAN has
are slated to be held in 2018 to chart out the collectively continued to strengthen regional
region’s climate change priorities and how the cooperation in disaster management and
ASEAN region can strengthen its cooperation on disaster risk reduction. A Senior Officials’ Multi-
climate change. Sectoral Workshop was convened in March
2018, addressing the challenge posed by more
The incumbent ASEAN Chair’s themes of frequent and intense disasters due to climate
resilience and innovation have highlighted change, human-induced disasters, and the
challenges amid an increasingly complex global lessons learned in the coordination and handover
geopolitical landscape – as well as the need of relief items by the AHA Centre. The Workshop
to equip people with the skills and capabilities discussed effective coordination mechanisms

ASEAN continues enhancing its capacity for a swift and scalable disaster response.

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 27

 ASEAN-supported youth programmes cover, among others, leadership, volunteerism, resilience, and life skills development

and responses following the Declaration on One Education cooperation also contributed to
ASEAN One Response: ASEAN Responding to dynamism in the region, especially among young
Disasters as One in the Region and Outside the people, via ASEAN scholarships and a credit
Region. transfer system scheme. In 2018, 400 ASEAN
students received scholarships to study at an
ASEAN also continued its commitment to ASEAN university outside their home countries
enhancing its capacity for swift, scalable disaster for a semester or six months. The recognition
response through the Disaster Emergency and transfer of acquired academic credits at their
Logistic System of ASEAN (DELSA) and its home universities was guaranteed. The ASCC
satellite warehouses. ASEAN has similarly Pillar also supported 20 youth programmes
explored options for disaster risk transfer and covering leadership, volunteerism, employment,
insurance as alternatives to traditional disaster resilience, intercultural understanding, and life
response financing. In pursuit of a dynamic skills development. For the first time, ASEAN
ASEAN, the region continues to embark on developed an ASEAN Youth Development Index
initiatives to promote a strong identity and active (YDI) to assess and document the outcomes and
inter-cultural activities. To commemorate the effectiveness of youth programmes in ASEAN.
50th anniversary of ASEAN, various cultural
programmes – such as literary festivals, photo The ASCC Pillar also works to prepare people
exhibitions, and seminars – were held to celebrate to be more competitive in the labour market. By
cultural diversity and vibrancy across ASEAN. improving the competitiveness and productivity
Cultural cooperation with ASEAN Dialogue of ASEAN’s workforce, including through skills
Partners has continued through initiatives with development and vocational education and
China, India, Japan, ROK, and UNESCO.

28 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

training (TVET); ASEAN is preparing its working Vision 2025. Implementation of the Declaration
population to meet the demands of the market, and that of other ASEAN projects, such as
especially in anticipation of the Fourth Industrial the ASEAN Civil Service Talent Management
Revolution. Model, ASEAN Guidelines on Public Service
Delivery, and ASEAN Resource Centres will help
The information sector contributes to strengthen governments promote high-performing, dynamic
an ASEAN sense of identity for people. ASEAN and citizen-centric civil service.
has increased cooperation to address deliberate
falsehoods, especially fake news, through the As proactive member of the global community,
Framework to Minimise the Harmful Effects ASEAN is committed to realising the Sustainable
of Fake News. The information sector has Development Goals (SDGs). The ASCC Pillar
also resolved to enhance cyber-wellness in has supported ASEAN Member States, as
the region, especially among youth. ASEAN well as Thailand as the Country Coordinator of
adopted the Core Values on Digital Literacy for SDGs in ASEAN inpromoting complementarities
ASEAN to guide ASEAN Member States in their between the ASEAN Vision 2025 and the SDGs.
programmes on promoting cyber-wellness. The work of the ASCC Pillar in this area was
noted by ASEAN Leaders, through the ASEAN
To better serve the people, ASEAN is committed China-UNDP Regional Report on Financing the
to building a quality civil service. ASEAN adopted Implementation of the SDGs in ASEAN, as well
the Declaration on the Role of Civil Service as a as the Report on Complementarities between
Catalyst for Achieving the ASEAN Community the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and the UN

Strengthening disaster management and disaster-risk reduction through close cooperation.

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 29

 ASEAN continues to foster a strong regional identity through initiatives that promote inter-cultural activities.

2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: A

Framework for Action, among other things. Charles Kenneth Lijauco is
a man of strong will. This
Progress has also been made in implementing young Filipino is grateful and
the ASCC Blueprint 2025. As of 28 February emboldened to make a place
2018, from a total of 929 sectoral activities, in the world for persons with
8% (71) have been completed, 47% (442) are disabilities with ASEAN’s
ongoing, and 45% (416) are to be implemented support. Charles and his
in the remaining years. partner Arnel Murga won the
ASEAN Citizen Youth Journalism 2017 contest
Two monitoring and evaluation workshops by raising awareness about the experience of
were convened to develop an ASCC Blueprint persons with disabilities through the “Project
monitoring system. The list of key performance Akay” online campaign. Inspired by ASEAN’s
indicators (KPIs) is scheduled to be submitted for help, Charles is eager to pursue his passion for
endorsement at the 25th Meeting of the Senior making the world more inclusive. “The ASEAN
Officials’ Committee for the ASCC (SOCA) on Citizen Youth Journalism made a lasting impact
1-2 October 2018 in Singapore. in my life – a huge one. I did not just learn the
basics and ethics of citizen journalism, but also
The ASCC pillar has also strengthened its met people – visionaries – who are willing to help
analytical capacity to ensure that ASCC sectoral me with the advocacy, and that’s the greatest
bodies and mechanisms are working as one for thing,” Charles said. “The programme provided
the realisation of the ASEAN Community Vision a platform where I could voice my advocacy and
2025 and beyond. let people from all over ASEAN hear it.”

30 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 31
R
ealising the ASEAN Vision 2025 Potential Priority ASEAN Infrastructure
means realising an ASEAN that is well- Projects
connected, both internally and with the
rest of the world. ASEAN Connectivity underpins There is a pressing need for continued infrastructure
the Community-building process and will aid development and investment – two things that
ASEAN Member States to further integrate have been key drivers for economic growth in the
themselves by creating a competitive region, region. Accordingly, ASEAN will need to spend
increase innovation and resilience, and provide a between USD 110 billion to USD 210 billion a year
long-term foundation for inclusive and equitable on infrastructure, according to various studies.
growth in the region, as well as a greater sense Some progress has been made to address this.
of Community. For example, since its establishment, the ASEAN
Infrastructure Fund has agreed to finance nine
For these reasons, the Master Plan of ASEAN projects with a combined total of USD 520 million.
Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 was adopted to
serve as a comprehensive framework to link A list of potential priority ASEAN infrastructure
ASEAN through physical, institutional, and projects, to be launched in November 2018, will
people-to-people connectivity and to focus on offer a pipeline for projects that will support greater
five strategic areas: sustainable infrastructure, connectivity among ASEAN Member States, the
digital innovation, seamless logistics, regulatory broader region, and beyond.
excellence, and people mobility.
An inception workshop, which brought together
The MPAC 2025 is a multi-year, cross-pillar, agencies involved in infrastructure development and
cross-sectoral, and project-centric initiative planning, was held on 18-19 April 2018 in Jakarta,
that is just beginning initial implementation. The Indonesia, to discuss tools to prioritise projects and
ASEAN Connectivity Coordinating Committee build the capacity of relevant government agencies
(ACCC) – the body entrusted to coordinate the in establishing the pipeline. Improving regional
implementation of MPAC 2025 – works closely capabilities in infrastructure development through
with relevant ASEAN Sectoral Bodies, National systematic collaboration and learning among all
Coordinators (NCs), and National Focal Points stakeholders involved will help strengthen ASEAN’s
(NFPs) to translate MPAC 2025 initiatives infrastructure capacity for better proposals, better
into concrete project concepts for resource visibility, and better outcomes for ASEAN’s people.
mobilization and implementation. As an example,
the Lead Implementing Body for Sustainable Advancing Sustainable Urbanisation
Infrastructure (LIB-SI) was established in March
2018 to advance sustainable infrastructure An estimated additional 90 million people will
development in ASEAN. move to cities in ASEAN by 2030, meaning
urban dwellers would then comprise 45% of
The ACCC has identified three MPAC 2025 ASEAN’s population, up from around 36% in
initiatives as deliverables under Singapore’s 2015. It is essential for urban planners and the
Chairmanship in 2018: the launch of an initial private sector to embrace the ASEAN Smart City
list of potential priority ASEAN infrastructure Network idea and sustainable city management
projects, a study to advance sustainable for infrastructure and service delivery. In this
urbanisation in ASEAN that will feed into regard, ASEAN is currently conducting a study
Singapore’s establishment of the ASEAN Smart to advance sustainable urbanization to map out
Cities Network (ASCN), and a review of Micro, the strategies that have been undertaken by
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises’ (MSMEs) ASEAN Member States related to sustainable
participation in the digital economy. Let’s explore urbanisation, and will make appropriate
each in turn. recommendations in November 2018.

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 33

 Infrastructure development and investment are key drivers of economic growth.

MSMEs in the Digital Economy

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), between January and April 2018. Web pages
which comprise the backbone of ASEAN’s and bite-sized stories are also being developed.
economy, have been offered new opportunities The 9th ASEAN Connectivity Symposium,
by technology and the internet. The ACCC themed “Towards Effective Implementation of
and the ASEAN Coordinating Committee on MPAC 2025” is planned for 6 September 2018
MSME (ACCMSME) have launched a study in Singapore.
on MSMEs and the digital economy, aiming to
review participation across Member States and Dialogue Partners and other external partners
engage MSMEs, digital platform companies were also engaged by the ACCC and informed
and relevant agencies to identify the challenges about developments in implementing MPAC
encountered by MSMEs in the digital economy. 2025, to obtain feedback on various initiatives,
The study would recommend how ASEAN might and to forge concrete cooperation. Effective
better support MSMEs in adapting these new coordination, cooperation and partnerships
opportunities. among relevant ASEAN bodies – as well as
between National Coordinators and National
The ACCC has continued to socialise and Focal Points, regional and local governments,
reach out to stakeholders to promote ASEAN the public and private sectors, and with Dialogue
Connectivity, developing and releasing a video Partners and other sub-regional and international
overview of the MPAC 2025 and five additional organisations – are critical to transforming the
videos focusing on the Master Plan’s Strategic vision of a well-connected ASEAN into reality.
Areas. The first video was launched on 12
November 2017 on the sidelines of the 31st
ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Manila,
Philippines. The remaining five videos were
released on ASEAN social media platforms

34 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 35
O
n 8 August 2017, ASEAN celebrated significant artworks from ASEC’s collection as well
its golden anniversary. This was not just as pieces loaned by prestigious private collections
commemorating an event from 50 years throughout the region. The exhibition – the first
ago that changed the socio-political landscape curated exhibition at the ASEAN Gallery – reflected
of Southeast Asia. ASEAN’s 50th anniversary on the transformation and advances that ASEAN
was a time to reflect on decades of cooperation has made over 50 years for AMS and people.
and unity that have transcended changes
in governments – and yielded a Community Through 2017, ASEAN Dialogue Partners also
whose people can enjoy the dividends of peace, embraced ASEAN’s 50th anniversary by staging
stability, and prosperity. participatory events aimed at the general public.
The events included the EU-ASEAN Run, the
As ASEAN Chair for 2017, the Philippines took ASEAN-India Family Fun Run, the ASEAN-China
the lead in organising regional commemorative Car Rally and the ASEAN50 Parade which was led
activities. ASEAN also leveraged the golden by Indonesia. Meanwhile, the ASEAN Committees
anniversary to enhance awareness and bring in Third Countries celebrated the golden jubilee of
ASEAN closer to communities while fostering a in various parts of the world.
sense of belonging and pride among people in
ASEAN Member States (AMS). On the whole, ASEAN’s 50th anniversary was
commemorated with creativity, dignity, enthusiasm,
The centerpiece of the anniversary year was the and requisite formality. The many events inspired by
“Tribute to Founding Fathers of ASEAN”, held on 8 the golden anniversary engaged many of ASEAN’s
August 2017 in Manila, Philippines, and attended diverse stakeholders in the true spirit of a people-
by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, dignitaries centred and people-oriented community.
from AMS, Dialogue Partners, as well as various
stakeholders. The event featured the unveiling Outreach
of a painting that depicted the iconic moment
that defined the birth of ASEAN: The signing of Given that greater awareness is crucial for boosting
the Bangkok Declaration by ASEAN’s Founding public support of the ASEAN Community, ASEC
Fathers. Outstanding youth social entrepreneurs has laboured on many fronts to ensure that an
and champions of biodiversity from the region were increasing number of people are well-informed
also recognised at the ceremony. about the opportunities that ASEAN offers.
ASEC also assisted ASEAN Committees in Third
Countries in promoting ASEAN outside the region
Each ASEAN Member State held multiple events
by providing resources and promotional materials.
to commemorate the anniversary, in addition to
common activities such as the ASEAN Landmark
Media: Recognising media’s crucial role in
Lighting and ASEAN Street Festivals. In Jakarta,
increasing awareness of ASEAN, the ASEC held
the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) staged the 50th
the inaugural ASEAN Media Forum during the
ASEAN Day celebration on 11 August 2017. The
50th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting in Manila on 4
event, which had as its guest of honour Indonesian
August 2017. The forum, attended by Philippines
President Joko Widodo, hosted more than 1,000
Foreign Affairs Secretary Alan Peter Cayetano,
people, including dignitaries as well as members engaged leading media figures from ASEAN
of civil society organisations, the diplomatic corps, Member States in a timely discussion of local
the general public, the private sector, and youth and international issues affecting the region.
groups.
Leveraging that success, the 2nd ASEAN Media
ASEC also partnered with the ASEAN Foundation Forum, held in Singapore on 4 May 2018, brought
to present a contemporary art exhibition titled together 30 media leaders and prominent bloggers
“Assemblage: Reflections on ASEAN” to showcase from every ASEAN Member State for a dialogue

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 37

 Groundbreaking Ceremony of the New ASEAN Secretariat Building

with regional thought leaders on issues critical steps for ASEC to close gaps in awareness,
to ASEAN. The event was co-organised with the communication, and information with a view to
S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies reinforcing the ASEAN brand.
(RSIS), the Government of Germany (through
GIZ) and Air Asia. Further, as the ASEAN Communication Master
Plan (ACMP) expired at the end of 2017, a new
The ASEAN Media Forum is envisioned as a key ACMP has been developed with the guidance from
channel to update media leaders on ASEAN’s the information sector. The new ACMP will provide
opportunities and challenges. The AMF will enable a framework for AMS to communicate messages
the media to objectively communicate ASEAN’s on the overall vision of ASEAN and the ASEAN
initiatives, achievements, and overall stories to the Community to key audiences. To ensure effective
people of ASEAN. implementation of the new ACMP, stronger
coordination between all sectors and stakeholders
ASEC has started working on an ASEAN will be forged to promote ASEAN and the ASEAN
Awareness Survey to measure awareness among brand.
the people of ASEAN Member States as compared
to the last survey conducted in 2012. The survey’s Visit Programme: Since young people are
results will help shape the development of practical some of the most important stakeholders

38 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community

of ASEAN’s integration process, the ASEAN Entities Engagement: Building on the success
Secretariat’s visit programme aims to enhance of the inaugural Forum of Entities held at ASEC
the awareness of university and high school in May 2017, a 2nd forum has been slated
students about ASEAN. During the reporting for the last quarter of 2018. The 2nd Forum
period, ASEC welcomed over 4,000 visitors from of Entities will bring together representatives
78 institutions, including students, teachers, of entities associated with ASEAN or seeking
professors, researchers, and diplomats. To ASEAN accreditation to discuss how they might
celebrate ASEAN’s golden jubilee, the ASEAN further strengthen their collaborations with each
Secretariat also organised a series of “ASEAN other and with sectoral bodies to contribute
Day Goes to School” events at universities and meaningfully to ASEAN’s Community-building
high schools across Indonesia to increase the efforts.
profile of ASEAN among young people.

The construction of the new ASEAN Secretariat building will be completed by early 2019.

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 39

 Social media: ASEC is utilising all available of ASEAN as a community of opportunities, in
digital platforms, such as its website (asean. accordance with the ACMP. Over the years,
org), and social media channels, including these digital platforms have gained significant
Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, followings.
YouTube, etc., to widely broadcast the message

ASEAN’s digital channels

Source: ASEAN Secretariat

40 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community A Resilie

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 41
Supporting ASEAN Community Building

hese charts provide information and updates ASEAN 2025 Forging Ahead Together. The charts
on the utilisation of resources for ASEAN show the utilisation proportion (number and
Cooperation Projects and Programmes. value) by three different ASEAN Communities,
Resources were provided by ASEAN Member i.e., AEC, APSC and ASCC, as well as for cross-
States and ASEAN External Partners to support sectoral and institutional capacity building under
ASEAN Community Building under the Roadmap the Other category.
for an ASEAN Community (2009-2015) and

Number and Value of ASEAN Cooperation Projects and Programmes (2009-2017)

Supporting ASEAN Community Building

Number of Projects Project/Programme Value

Pillar (In USD Millions)
and Programmes
AEC 261 527.2
APSC 135 138.9
ASCC 519 485.3
Others 60 76.0
975 1.227.3

*Ongoing, Implemented and Completed Projects & Programmes

AEC APSC ASCC OTHER AEC APSC ASCC OTHER

40% 6% 11% 53% 6% 14%

43% 27%

Total Value USD 1,227 Million Total of 975 Projects and Programmes

A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community 43

 www.asean.org asean asean asean

46 A Resilient and Innovative ASEAN Community