Ex-Indonesian Trade Minister to discuss Asean trajectory
Southeast Asia sits at a hinge moment. Home to immense diversity and a fast-growing economy, the region has managed to sustain a fragile peace while the world’s strategic weather continues to shift around it.
By all logic, it should already command global attention; yet too often it lingers at the margins of the story others tell about us.
From Manila’s vantage point, this moment offers an opportunity to reflect on the inheritances that shape the region, confront the frictions that stall delivery and explore practical ways the Philippines can contribute to, and benefit from, a more confident and cohesive Southeast Asia.
In the next leg of his journey across Southeast Asia, Indonesian statesman, businessman and thought leader Gita Wirjawan will be in Manila to launch his latest book, “What It Takes: Southeast Asia.”
A former minister of trade of Indonesia, chair of Ancora Group and host of Indonesia’s definitive leadership podcast Endgame, Wirjawan brings decades of experience in governance, investment and education to his writing.
“What It Takes: Southeast Asia” draws from dialogues with scholars, practitioners and leaders worldwide to explore Southeast Asia’s modernization and global role.
Blending realism and aspiration, Wirjawan challenges future leaders to reimagine Southeast Asia’s trajectory and unlock the region’s potential on the global stage.
“Southeast Asians deserve quality leadership that directly reflects the interests and priorities of the people these policies are intended to serve,” Wirjawan writes.
In the book, he highlights that true progress in the region depends on strengthening the link between education and leadership.
He posits that through excellence in education, Southeast Asia can cultivate the kind of leadership that reflects its people’s aspirations and delivers progress that endures.
He also underscores the importance of regional cooperation, emphasizing that “Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) must set the example for the types of leaders and best practices that nations should emulate and cultivate to strengthen the region’s positive trajectory.”
On Nov. 11, Wirjawan will be in town for a fireside chat and book launch of “What It Takes: Southeast Asia,” followed by a book signing session.
The event is organized by Asia Society Philippines as part of Asia Society’s mission to foster meaningful dialogue on shared challenges and opportunities for Asia and the world.
The event will take place at Manila House, BGC, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. For inquiries and registration, please email manila@asiasociety.org.
