RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The younger generation is considered to have a crucial role in strengthening ASEAN's identity and maintaining the regional organization's relevance amidst evolving global dynamics. Therefore, students are expected to understand ASEAN not only as an intergovernmental organization but also to be part of efforts to strengthen regional cooperation.

"ASEAN cooperation will not be optimal if it is only carried out by the government and parliament. There is one thing that BKSAP is working on through activities like today, namely strengthening ASEAN Identity," Deputy Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) at the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR), Bramantyo Suwondo, said at the 27th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) Roadshow in Jakarta on Thursday, July 23, 2026.

Carrying the theme " Anchors of Unity, Bridges of the Future: Strengthening ASEAN Centrality in Navigating Global Challenges ", the activity presented an exclusive dialogue session with various figures, including the AIPA Secretary General Chem Widhya, former Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Delia Domingo Albert. Students from various universities attended the dialogue, serving as a discussion space regarding parliamentary diplomacy and the future of ASEAN.

According to him, ASEAN's identity needs to be continuously developed so that the public, especially the younger generation, has a sense of belonging to the region. This way, ASEAN will be understood not only as a forum for cooperation between countries, but also as a shared home for all Southeast Asians.

"This means that all of you are also agents or diplomats in the ASEAN region. ASEAN belongs to all of us, ASEAN is our home," he affirmed.

He hopes the AIPA Roadshow will broaden students' horizons regarding ASEAN, parliamentary diplomacy, and regional challenges. Through direct dialogue with the speakers, participants are expected to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of collaboration in maintaining regional stability and progress.

Similarly, Chem Widhya emphasized that governments and parliaments do not solely determine ASEAN's future. The younger generation also has a strategic role to play in strengthening regional cooperation and upholding the values that have long been the foundation of ASEAN.

"Nearly half of ASEAN's population is under 30. As ASEAN continues to face an increasingly complex environment, the younger generation has a crucial role to play in strengthening regional cooperation, building mutual understanding, and preserving the values that have long united our region," the Cambodian diplomat said.

A similar view was expressed by Delia Domingo Albert. The senior diplomat urged the younger generation to participate in ASEAN's journey, which has been built through a spirit of cooperation, integration, connectivity, community, and centrality.

"I invite the younger generation to be part of ASEAN's journey. ASEAN's future depends on the involvement of its people, especially the younger generation, who will continue cooperation and maintain regional unity," he said.