From Legacy to Leadership: Preparing ASEAN’s Next Generation Through Family Business Values
Taylor’s University delegates after a workshop at Thammasat University, guided by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), where they explored themes of self-reflection, empathy, and inclusive leadership practices during the AYE 2025/ HO to Avnmedia.id
AVNMEDIA.ID - In an era marked by climate threats, social inequality, and economic disruption, the challenge for the next generation is no longer whether they are ready to lead, but how they will carry forward the legacy entrusted to them.
This question took center stage at the ASEAN Youth Exchange (AYE) 2025 in Bangkok, where delegates from Taylor’s University explored how family values, sustainability, and cultural identity are shaping a new model of leadership for Southeast Asia—rooted in tradition, yet designed for innovation.
Stewardship and Social Innovation
One of the key takeaways from the exchange was the urgency of embedding sustainability into leadership DNA.
At the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), delegates were reminded that the world remains far from meeting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
For Malaysia—whose Twelfth and Thirteenth Malaysia Plans align with these goals—this is a call to action for next-generation family business leaders.
Leadership today must extend beyond the boardroom, embracing social innovation such as transforming food waste into products or building digital mental health platforms.
The goal is not profit alone, but community resilience, dignity, and shared prosperity.
This mindset reflects the spirit of Malaysia’s Social Enterprise Accreditation (SE.A) framework and a rising wave of impact-driven family ventures.
The message is clear: family legacy is not static—it evolves when guided by purpose.
Green Economy: Tradition Meets Innovation
Thailand’s business landscape offered Malaysian delegates a glimpse of how legacy businesses can spearhead green innovation.
From solar power to plastic recycling, Thai family-owned companies are proving that sustainability and profitability can thrive together without compromising generational values.
This model resonates strongly with Malaysia, where family firms contribute significantly to the nation’s GDP.
Local champions are already investing in renewable energy, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments, and sustainable supply chains.
The emerging narrative is powerful: tradition and transformation go hand-in-hand. For Malaysia’s young successors, the challenge is not just to inherit, but to innovate—anchoring new ideas in family values while future-proofing enterprises for generations to come.
Culture and Legacy: ASEAN’s Competitive Edge
Beyond dialogue, cultural immersion during the exchange offered a blueprint for resilient leadership.
Visits to Thai heritage sites reinforced the belief that identity is not an obstacle to progress, but its foundation.
In Malaysia’s multicultural society, this lesson rings especially true. From traditional crafts to community festivals, culture drives both social cohesion and entrepreneurial opportunities.
For family businesses, heritage is not simply preserved—it is lived. And in times of global uncertainty, it becomes a strategic advantage.
Turning Inspiration Into Action
The true value of AYE 2025 lies in what comes next. Delegates return not just with knowledge, but with a sense of intergenerational responsibility.
Whether launching green startups, revitalizing traditional businesses, or contributing to national policy forums, their leadership will be measured by how effectively they translate legacy into action.
Taylor’s Centre for Family Business (TCFB)—a partner of ASEAN Youth Exchange 2025 organized by the ASEAN Youth Organisation—is positioned at the heart of this transformation.
By nurturing youth leadership through sustainability, innovation, and cultural continuity, TCFB ensures that Malaysia’s family enterprises do more than survive—they lead. (jas)
