Two Universiti Teknologi Brunei (UTB) students participated in the ASEAN-Korea Youth Network Workshop (AKYNW) 2025, held from 16 to 22 July 2025 in the Republic of Korea and the Kingdom of Cambodia.
Representing Brunei Darussalam were Nurfarah Aliaa binti Haji Suhaimi, a student of Bachelor of Business (Hons) Major in Finance and Risk Management, and Hurun ‘Ain binti Issa, who is currently pursuing a BSc (Hons) in Communication. Both students were selected to join youth delegates from across all 10 ASEAN Member States and the Republic of Korea for this prestigious 8-day programme organised by the ASEAN-Korea Centre.
Held under the theme “Strengthening ASEAN-Korea Youth’s Engagement: Leveraging Green Economy for Inclusive Growth,” the workshop provided a platform for young leaders to explore key issues related to sustainable development, green innovation, and regional collaboration.
The first leg of the programme took place in South Korea, where participants attended lectures, visited institutions such as the Green Climate Fund and the ASEAN-Korea Centre, and took part in cultural exchange activities. Notably, both students were actively involved in the Youth Action Campaign Video Challenge, where their group, “Cloud 9,” secured 2nd place for their creative campaign promoting the green economy.
The second half of the workshop was held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, and included visits to the Sosoro Museum, the Royal Palace, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. The programme concluded with the Group Policy Proposal Presentations, where Farah’s group “Blueprint” was awarded 1st Place, while Ain’s group “Cloud 9” placed 3rd, further highlighting the outstanding contributions of UTB’s representatives.
The ASEAN-Korea Youth Network Workshop 2025 served as a meaningful platform for growth, collaboration, and global awareness. Through a dynamic mix of academic engagement and cultural exchange, the programme empowered participants to think critically about sustainable development and regional cooperation. As proud representatives of UTB and Brunei Darussalam, the students return inspired to turn their experiences into action and contribute positively to a more sustainable and inclusive future.