Jakarta, 12 November – The ASEAN Secretariat hosted a courtesy meeting between ASEAN Deputy Secretary-General for Community and Corporate Affairs, H.E. Nararya Soeprapto, and Mr. Jurriaan Middelhoff, the Netherlands’ Ambassador-at-Large for Youth, Education, and Work, on 11 November 2025.
The discussion centred on strengthening collaboration in youth empowerment and education development across Southeast Asia.
During the meeting, both sides emphasised the importance of equipping young people with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a rapidly changing global environment.
Mr. Middelhoff highlighted the Netherlands’ commitment to supporting initiatives that foster innovation, inclusivity, and employability among youth.
He noted that education partnerships could play a vital role in bridging gaps and preparing future generations for regional and international challenges.
H.E. Nararya Soeprapto reaffirmed ASEAN’s dedication to advancing youth-focused programmes within the framework of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025.
He stressed that education and youth empowerment are central to ASEAN’s long-term agenda, particularly in promoting sustainable development and regional integration. “Youth are the backbone of our future, and education is the key to unlocking their potential,” he remarked.
The dialogue also touched on practical areas of cooperation, including vocational training, digital literacy, and cross-cultural exchanges.
Both parties recognised the growing need to adapt education systems to technological advancements and labour market demands.
The Netherlands expressed interest in sharing best practices from its own youth and education policies, while ASEAN welcomed opportunities to enhance regional initiatives through international collaboration.
This meeting reflects ASEAN’s broader strategy of engaging external partners to support community-building efforts.
The Netherlands has been an active dialogue partner in various sectors, and its focus on youth and education aligns with ASEAN’s priorities in human capital development.
Observers note that the timing of the meeting is significant, as ASEAN continues to expand programmes aimed at empowering young people in areas such as entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development.
With Southeast Asia’s youth population representing a major demographic force, cooperation with international partners is seen as crucial to ensuring inclusive growth and resilience.
The courtesy call concluded with both sides expressing optimism about future collaboration. The ASEAN Secretariat confirmed that follow-up discussions will explore concrete initiatives to advance shared goals in education and youth empowerment.
Sources: ASEAN Secretariat News, RAinfo.org, AIPA Secretariat
