Bridging the Gap Between Science and Policy in Southeast Asia – SEA SAN Meeting – Malaysia, June 2022
On the 20th of June, the Southeast Asia Science Advice Network (SEA SAN) successfully held its first physical meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Themed “Bridging the Gap Between Science and Policy in Southeast Asia”, the meeting was attended by network members and key stakeholders, including Prof Zakri Abdul Hamid as Chair of the SEA SAN, and Dr Zurina Moktar, Head of the S&T Division at the ASEAN Secretariat.
The meeting was also officiated by the Honorable Dr Adham Baba, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) Malaysia, and featured a Keynote Speech by Professor Yongyuth Yuthavong, Former Deputy Prime Minister and Former Minister of Science and Technology of Thailand.
The high level of engagement of the members and stakeholders during the meeting was testament of the success of the SEA SAN in connecting the science and policy sectors, obtaining endorsement and buy-in from government ministries, and demonstrating the support and demand for stronger structures for science advice in the Southeast Asian region. Underlined by its credibility, salience and legitimacy, the network is currently exploring avenues to expand its potential to serve as an independent, regional advisory body or a centre for excellence for science advice and diplomacy to address local as well as shared regional and global issues.
Photos and videos from the meeting are available HERE