Cooperation, strong institutions and solutions grounded in scientific evidence and on-the-ground experience are essential as Southeast Asia faces rising climate risks, changing markets, pressure on natural resources and continuing challenges to food security and nutrition, Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh said.
She made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the 74th Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization – Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEAMEO SEARCA) Governing Board Meeting, which she officiated yesterday.
She said the meeting brings participants together with a shared purpose to address common challenges, seize emerging opportunities and contribute towards a more sustainable and resilient future for the region.
The minister said the meeting also serves as an important platform for dialogue, collaboration and strategic decision-making.
“SEAMEO SEARCA has an important role in bringing these elements together by supporting regional development,” she said.
Through its efforts in education, research, capacity-building and knowledge exchange, SEARCA continues to contribute meaningfully to strengthening agriculture, rural development and human capital across Southeast Asia.
The board endorsed SEARCA’s 12th Five-Year Development Plan, SUSTAIN Southeast Asia, at its previous Governing Board Meeting, which aims to improve farmers’ incomes, strengthen food security and nutrition, build resilience, and empower people and institutions.
The minister described these goals as both timely and ambitious, adding that the work ahead is to translate the vision into action through research that informs policy, education and training that prepare the next generation, and innovations that are useful, accessible and responsive to farmers’ needs.
Progress, she said, should be judged not only by plans and activities, but by whether people’s lives improve, livelihoods become more secure, food systems more resilient and opportunities more inclusive.
“That is why the Governing Board’s work matters,” she said, noting that its discussions help set direction, review performance and ensure that SEARCA’s resources and programmes serve its regional mission.
She encouraged members to have a constructive and forward-looking meeting, share perspectives openly, learn from different country experiences and identify where regional collaboration can make the greatest difference.
Looking ahead, the minister encouraged SEARCA to continue serving as a leading regional centre of excellence that promotes innovation, strengthens partnerships and supports evidence-based solutions for sustainable development.
“With its strong foundation, dedicated leadership, and extensive regional network, SEARCA is well positioned to contribute even more significantly to the advancement of Southeast Asia in the years ahead,” she said.
The challenges before the region are substantial, but so are the opportunities, she said, adding that through cooperation, innovation and a shared commitment to sustainable development, a future that is resilient, inclusive and prosperous for all can be built.
Brunei Darussalam values cooperation and the exchange of knowledge across Southeast Asia, she said.
“We hope your time here will strengthen the connections among our countries and institutions, and support the important work of SEARCA and its partners,” the minister said.
As participants begin their deliberations, the minister wished them thoughtful discussions and a productive meeting, hoping that the decisions and commitments made would help advance a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient agricultural future for Southeast Asia.
Brunei Darussalam is hosting the 74th SEAMEO SEARCA Governing Board Meeting, taking place from yesterday until today at a hotel in Gadong.
The SEAMEO SEARCA Governing Board serves as the centre’s policymaking body, providing policy direction and oversight; reviewing and evaluating SEARCA’s programmes, operations and priorities; considering necessary improvements; and reviewing and confirming key institutional agreements.
The meeting brings together members of the Governing Board, officials and delegates from across the region to discuss matters relating to regional cooperation, education, agriculture, research, capacity-building and sustainable development. – Lyna Mohamad