Scaling Workforce Resilience and Adaptability: Toward Inclusive Lifelong Learning Systems in ASEAN
Date:
30 June 2025Category:
Labour and Migration, Regulation and GovernanceType:
Policy BriefsTags:
labour, governance, digitalisation, ASEANPrint Article:
ASEAN’s workforce is undergoing profound disruption driven by digitalisation, the green transition, and the rise of the gig economy – trends that are exposing substantial skills gaps across key demographic groups. While regional initiatives like the ASEAN HRD Roadmap represent important starting points, they often fall short of aligning with evolving labour market needs. Scalable solutions such as micro-credentials, backed by data-driven governance and targeted financial assistance, can help bridge this divide. Notable national programmes, including Indonesia’s Kartu Prakerja and Singapore’s SkillsFuture, illustrate how adaptive and inclusive workforce strategies can address these emerging challenges. To foster resilience and competitiveness, ASEAN governments must elevate digital training, enhance public-private coordination, and design inclusive funding mechanisms aimed at closing skills gaps and preparing workers for an increasingly dynamic economy.
