The discussion featured four key presentations focusing on ASEAN workforce development policies, changes and challenges in the labor market of Vietnam and ASEAN as a whole, and proposed solutions to adapt to new trends.

In the first presentation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Hong Xuan, Director of the Vietnam and Southeast Asia Research Center, delivered insights on ASEAN workforce development policies. She highlighted the cultural diversity and unique characteristics of ASEAN countries, linking these aspects to the opportunities and challenges faced by students in social sciences and humanities as they enter the international labor market.

The second presentation, titled “Human Resource Training in Singapore: Opportunities and Challenges,” was delivered by Mr. Pang Te Chang, Consul General of Singapore in Vietnam. During the session, he highlighted that the primary concern for today’s workforce is job security. People worry not only about their current employment but also about their future prospects. To address this, the Singaporean government has introduced an initiative called SkillsFuture, aimed at ensuring workers can remain employable throughout their careers and even beyond, thereby addressing job security concerns.

The next presentation was delivered by Mr. Angus Liew Bing Fooi, Chairman of the Malaysian Business Association in Vietnam and General Director of Gamuda Land JSC. His topic focused on “Smart Cities: Opportunities and Challenges for Vietnam’s Workforce in the ASEAN Community.”

He emphasized the future opportunities in the Vietnamese market, noting that Vietnam has the second youngest labor force in Southeast Asia. However, challenges remain, such as a lack of advanced skills and language barriers. To address these issues, he proposed increased investment in vocational training, learning initiatives, and workforce development programs.

Mr. Liew highlighted the importance of greater investment in education for students and teachers, improving rural access to education, and providing financial support for education. He believes these measures will unlock future opportunities for Vietnam’s labor market and prepare a skilled workforce to meet emerging trends.

In the final presentation, Mr. Luu Nhat Tuan, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Culinary Association, addressed the topic “From Employment Opportunities in ASEAN to the Mission of Promoting Vietnamese Identity Through Cuisine.”

He emphasized that for young Vietnamese students, joining the labor market in ASEAN countries is not only a chance to advance their careers but also an opportunity to represent Vietnam and embody the nation’s image in international exchanges and integration. Promoting Vietnamese cuisine globally is not merely a cultural mission but also a sustainable economic strategy, contributing to elevating the country’s status on the world map.