ASEAN-Australia Education Dialogue (AAED) 2025 Successfully Concluded in Penang
ASEAN-Australia Education Dialogue (AAED) 2025 Successfully Concluded in Penang
Dec 4 : As Malaysia assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, the ASEAN University Network (AUN) selected UNESCO World Heritage George Town, Penang, Malaysia as the host location for this year’s ASEAN-Australia Education Dialogue (AAED) 2025.
AAED 2025 is hosted by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), in Penang - a regional hub for learning and exchange, including in marine and coastal research - and proudly co-organised with the ASEAN Focus Group (AFG VG), in association with the ASEAN University Network (AUN), the dialogue invites participation from across ASEAN and Australia, celebrating diversity, connection, and shared purpose.
USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic & International), Professor Dato’ Gs. Dr. Narimah Samat, together with Sophie Horgan, Counsellor of Education and Research, Australian High Commission, delivered welcoming speeches that set the tone for four days of insightful discussions. The AAED 2025 attended by over 150 participants that united thought leaders, researchers, students, policymakers, and change-makers from across all ASEAN countries and partner universities in Australia.
A special highlight of the event was the Gala Dinner, where the Penang State Executive Council, MP Fahmi Zainol delivered an address on the strategic initiatives under the Penang 2030 Vision. The dinner was generously sponsored by the University of Newcastle Australia, adding to the spirit of collaboration and friendship between Australian and ASEAN countries.
This year’s theme, “Education in Motion: Reimagining Mobility, Inclusivity, and Sustainability Across Borders,” underscored the urgent need for collaborative strategies that strengthen sustainability, inclusion, and innovation in education. Through vibrant discussions on climate action, maritime sustainability, digital learning, and regional mobility, the AAED 2025 successfully fulfilled its mission as a platform for meaningful partnerships. The strong participation and rich exchanges throughout the four days clearly reflected a collective commitment to shaping a more connected, resilient, and forward-looking future for the region.