Makati city:<Text>

The Philippines, taking the role as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year, inaugurated a high-level ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) forum on Wednesday. The objective of the forum is to exchange best practices and develop strategies for cultivating a more 'people-centered and people-empowered' region.

According to Philippines News Agency, ASCC Chair and Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized ASEAN's crucial position in shaping discussions to further empower families and communities. He highlighted the alignment of these efforts with the ASEAN community vision of 2045, stressing the importance of social inclusion, protection of vulnerable groups, and fostering a shared community identity.

Gatchalian pointed out that the dialogue is especially relevant as Southeast Asia grapples with widening inequality, climate change, and other complex challenges. He noted that t hese issues require collaborative efforts, underscoring the need for a resilient and people-centered community.

Participants from various member states contributed their perspectives. Thailand Advisor for Social Development, Sirilak Meemak, discussed the importance of responsive social protection systems in the face of climate shocks, aging populations, rising costs, and digital transformations. She stated that social protection reflects societal values and inclusivity.

Brunei Darussalam's Minister for Culture, Youth and Sports, Dato Nazmi bin Haji Mohamad, and Cambodia's Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports Secretary of State, Oung Borat, stressed the significance of youth empowerment. Borat advocated for enhancing soft and core skills and promoting student-teacher mobility to create a future-ready, interconnected learning ecosystem. Dato Nazmi called for a reimagining of youth leadership, encouraging collaboration beyond ASEAN's borders.

Singapore's M inister for Social and Family Development, Masagos Zulkifli, highlighted their family-centric policies, emphasizing proactive measures to address potential issues early. This approach contrasts with previous reactive strategies, aiming to provide support before challenges become unmanageable.

Malaysia's Chiew Choon Man underscored the role of tourism, arts, and culture in fostering inclusive growth and strengthening regional identity. He described these sectors as vital economic drivers for reinforcing social cohesion across ASEAN.

The forum, an initiative launched by Malaysia last year, brings together ASEAN ministers, officials, youth leaders, and partners for weeklong ASCC meetings in Makati City. Attendees included officials from Lao PDR, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Timor-Leste, reflecting a broad regional commitment to the forum's objectives.