ALA & WLN First Combined Internal Meeting – 26 September 2024

On 26 September 2024, the ASEAN Legal Alliance (ALA) and Warwick Legal Network (WLN) hosted their first combined internal meeting, marking an important milestone in their collaboration. The event brought together members from both networks to discuss strategic initiatives, share insights, and explore opportunities for growth in the legal and business sectors within ASEAN and beyond.

A standout feature of the meeting was The 2030 SDGs Game, facilitated by Dr. Scott Smith of Assumption University, Thailand. This immersive, game-based workshop allowed participants to experience a simulated world in 2030, encouraging them to explore the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and consider how the legal and business sectors can contribute to global sustainability.

The meeting also featured insightful presentations and discussions from leading experts. Mr. Suvit Thammongkol, Vice President of Carbon Registry Thailand (CRT), gave a detailed talk on ESG for Business in ASEAN, highlighting the growing importance of environmental, social, and governance considerations in regional business practices.

A shared panel of ALA & WLN members discussed crucial topics including ESG, Cross-border Data Protection, and Technology. The panel was moderated by Agnes Wong, Managing Partner of Syarikat Ong, and included esteemed speakers such as Carlo Gurioli, Partner at Bureau Plattner, David Elvira Benito, Partner at Bufete Mana-Krier Elvira, and Tracy Pan, Managing Partner of Guangxi Wan Yi Law Firm in Singapore. The discussion provided valuable insights into how businesses and legal professionals can navigate the challenges of data protection and technological advancements in a globalized world.

The meeting concluded with a thought-provoking session on The Art of War for Business, presented by Mr. Dar Wong, Executive Vice President of the ASEAN-China Commerce Association (ACCA). This session offered valuable strategies for applying Sun Tzu’s timeless wisdom to modern business challenges.

To wrap up the event, participants enjoyed a lively dinner, filled with opportunities for fun, networking, and bonding. The evening provided a chance for all attendees to connect on a personal level, further strengthening the relationships within the ALA and WLN communities.