GEORGE TOWN, 4 December 2025 – As Malaysia assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, the ASEAN University Network (AUN) selected UNESCO World Heritage George Town, Penang, as the host city for this year’s ASEAN-Australia Education Dialogue (AAED) 2025.

Hosted by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), the dialogue was co-organised with the ASEAN Focus Group (AFG VG), in association with the AUN.

The event welcomed participants from across ASEAN and Australia, celebrating diversity, connection, and shared purpose.

In her opening remarks, the USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic & International, Professor Dato’ Gs. Dr. Narimah Samat together with Sophie Horgan, Counsellor of Education and Research at the Australian High Commission, set the tone for four days of insightful discussions.

AAED 2025 brought together more than 150 participants, including thought leaders, researchers, students, policymakers, and change-makers from all ASEAN member states and partner universities in Australia.

A highlight of the programme was the Gala Dinner, where Penang State Executive Council member, MP Fahmi Zainol, delivered an address outlining strategic initiatives under the Penang 2030 Vision.

The dinner was generously sponsored by the University of Newcastle, Australia, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration and friendship between ASEAN and Australian institutions.

This year’s theme, “Education in Motion: Reimagining Mobility, Inclusivity, and Sustainability Across Borders,” underscored the urgent need for collaborative strategies to strengthen sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation in education.

Through vibrant discussions on climate action, maritime sustainability, digital learning, and regional mobility, AAED 2025 successfully fulfilled its mission as a platform for meaningful partnerships.

The strong participation and rich exchanges throughout the four days reflected a collective commitment to shaping a more connected, resilient, and forward-looking future for the region.

Source Text & Photos: Division of Academic & International, USM Fb post/Editing: MPRC