U.S.-ASEAN Leadership Empowerment

The visit also provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of regional partnerships and collaboration in addressing evolving maritime security challenges. Participants also toured ASU Decision Theater Network, where they experienced a demonstration of the University's innovative use of data analytics and visualization to support decision-making. The session highlighted how advanced technology can help policymakers better understand complex challenges and develop informed, data-driven solutions for security and other public policy issues.

Key areas included maritime security, regional integration and resiliency, the energy transition, and emerging technologies such as AI, against the backdrop of an increasingly complex global geopolitical landscape. The discussion was moderated by Ambassador Piper Campbell – American University, and joined by U.S. experts including Courtney Weatherby – Stimson Center, Hunter Marston - CSIS, Shay Wester – Asia Society Policy Institute, and Dr. Prashanth Parameswaran – Institute for Indo-Pacific Security.

Arizona State University's Vice President for Strategic Technology Initiatives Kevin McGinnis gave a presentation on ASU’s research & development, and training initiatives in collaboration with the U.S. government and our international partners to advance semiconductor manufacturing and securing the chips supply chains. The fellows also had the opportunity to visit and experience a demonstration of ASU Decision Theater, where advanced data visualization and analysis help decision-makers explore complex scenarios, integrating interdisciplinary data to make evidence-based decisions.

Director Anh Hoang shared an overview of the Center’s mission, current initiatives, and future activities, while also engaging participants in dialogue on how we can continue strengthening U.S.–ASEAN relations together. The group also visited ASU Decision Theater, where they experienced a demonstration of how data-driven tools can support policymakers and decision-makers to make more informed choices.

The group included distinguished professionals from Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, all nominated by their respective U.S. Embassies. Director Anh Hoang presented a briefing on the U.S.-ASEAN Center’s mission and highlighted opportunities to deepen U.S.-ASEAN partnerships and foster stronger people-to-people ties.