SELANGOR, MALAYSIA November 30, 2025 – The Rotary Club of Ipoh Central, together with UNFPA in Malaysia, Sunway University, and the ASEAN Rotary Network, officially launched the ASEAN Youth Peacebuilders Programme 2026 at Sunway Resort Hotel, Selangor.
The launch also recognised the crucial involvement of two global peacebuilding organisations with deep, long-standing alliances with Rotary International:
- Mediators Beyond Borders International (MBBI) – Managing Partners of the programme
- Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP) – Programme Partners and global leaders in the Positive Peace Framework
Their partnership strengthens the programme’s technical expertise, peacebuilding methodologies, and global learning components. The initiative will bring together 40 young leaders from all 11 ASEAN Member States for a 12-day residential training aimed at equipping them with practical skills in conflict transformation, mental health advocacy, gender equality, Positive Peace, and climate resilience.
According to the President, Rotary Club of Ipoh Central Dr Nageenthren Ragunathan,
“Rotary has always championed peace as a cornerstone of human progress. With the support of UNFPA in Malaysia, Sunway University, MBBI, and the Institute for Economics & Peace, this programme represents one of the strongest multi-sector collaborations in our region.
Together, we are shaping a new generation of ASEAN peace champions.”
This statement was echoed by the UNFPA in Malaysia Representative and UNFPA in Thailand Country Director Dr. Julitta Onabanjo.
“Young people are at the heart of social transformation. UNFPA is delighted to be part of this initiative which brings global best practices and strong regional collaboration through partners like MBBI and IEP-ensuring youth are prepared to lead with empathy, equality, and resilience.”
President and Vice Chancellor, Sunway University – Professor Sibrandes Popema also reiterated :
“Sunway University is proud to host a programme that aligns with our mission to develop global citizens who advance peace and sustainability. Collaborations with esteemed partners such as the Institute for Economics & Peace and MBBI enrich the academic rigour and international quality of the learning experience.”
Organising Chair – Past District Governor Dato’ Bindi Rajasegaran, District 3300 Malaysia said :
“This programme is the result of powerful alliances. Rotary’s long-standing friendship with MBBI and the Institute for Economics & Peace has shaped our shared Peacebuilder curriculum, grounded in evidence, dialogue, and compassion. Our young participants will gain not only skills, but a lifelong network of peace allies across ASEAN.”
ASEAN inter-Country Committee Chairman – Past District Governor Virgilio Jun Farcon, Philippines also commented:
“The ASEAN Inter-Country Committee proudly supports this milestone initiative. The involvement of MBBI and IEP-both trusted peace partners of Rotary for many years-adds immense value. These 43 young leaders represent ASEAN’s future, and together we are strengthening regional harmony one relationship at a time.”
The ASEAN Youth Peacebuilders Programme 2026 is built around Rotary’s global peace agenda and the Positive Peace Framework championed by the Institute for Economics & Peace. As Managing Partners, Mediators Beyond Borders International will contribute mediation expertise, trauma-informed facilitation, and global peacebuilding methodologies.
Participants will undergo workshops, field exposure, and dialogue modules in:
- Positive Peace
- Conflict Transformation
- Mental Health and Resilience
- Gender Equality and GBV Prevention
- Climate Action
- Intercultural Cooperation
The programme is supported by the ASEAN Rotary Network. The ASEAN Rotary Intercountry Committee was established in May 2022 and brought together more than 42,000 members from 1,600 Rotary Clubs across the region. The purpose of a Rotary ICC is to increase fellowship and intercultural understanding, foster stronger ties between members, clubs, and districts from different countries, and establish networks across borders.
The formal framework of Rotary ICC is for strategic, long-term relationships and provides an additional means for Rotary and Rotaract clubs to fulfil the responsibilities of the 4th Avenue of Service: international understanding, goodwill, and peace.