Snapshot of success with Asia

For three decades, the Asialink Leaders Program has developed a network of Asia engagement champions, known simply as “Leaders.” Each year, the Program brings together a unique cohort of business and policy professionals, scientists, academics, advocates and artists, equipping them with strategic insight, cultural fluency, and the networks to turn proximity into partnership. 

This publication shares the learnings of a sample of Leaders demonstrating the breadth of sectors where Asia capability is yielding returns. These range from Islamic finance and precision agriculture to education, healthcare, technology, the arts and sport. 

Whether navigating boardrooms in Jakarta, labs in Singapore or galleries in Tokyo, these individuals reveal the diverse and evolving nature of Australia’s engagement with the region. Their stories illustrate the impact that cultivating Asia capability can have and why it must be a whole-of-nation priority if we are to build a future that ensures we thrive as the world order shifts and the region in which we live becomes more connected and more complex. 

The Leaders interviewed for this publication are clear: Asia capability is more important than ever. As the Indo-Pacific becomes increasingly interconnected and contested, Australia’s ability to navigate the region and make the most of the opportunities it offers will depend on its partnership and reciprocal engagement with the region. Australia’s Asia capability is the key to enabling the prosperity, security and stability required to thrive.