The ASEAN Leaders Programme is an ongoing annual leadership development initiative jointly organised by the ASEAN Foundation and Common Purpose, a renowned international leadership development organisation. Since its inception in 2016, the programme has brought together senior leaders from the public and private sectors, as well as civil society, to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaborative learning across the ASEAN region.

The programme centres around a timely and significant leadership challenge that directly influences ASEAN’s growth and the wellbeing of its people. By addressing this challenge collectively, participants enhance their leadership capabilities while fostering deeper understanding and cooperation across sectors and national borders.

Structured as an experiential learning journey, the programme uses cities as dynamic classrooms. This approach allows participants to immerse themselves in diverse socio-cultural contexts and to cultivate Cultural Intelligence or the ability to work effectively across different cultures. Through guided interactions, problem-solving exercises, and cross-sectoral engagement, leaders develop innovative, collaborative solutions to regional issues.

The ASEAN Leaders Programme aims to unlock the full potential of ASEAN’s diversity, nurturing a new generation of leaders who are not only skilled but also attuned to the region’s complexity. It facilitates the creation of a robust leadership network that transcends conventional boundaries, strengthening people-to-people connectivity across the region.