KUALA LUMPUR - ASEAN secretary-general Kao Kim Hourn has called for renewed focus on strengthening the region’s higher education landscape to curb the outflow of talent and enhance long-term development.

Kao said several member countries continued to struggle with brain drain as graduates and educators sought better opportunities abroad.

He said technical and vocational education and training (TVET) should be seen as a priority pathway for students rather than an alternative option.

“Our collective task is to ensure TVET is not a pathway to employment, but a platform for innovation, entrepreneurship and regional integration,” said Kao in his address at the Festival of Ideas held at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre.

The event was also attended by deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who chairs the National TVET Council.

Kao highlighted the importance of adaptive learning models and values-based education, including micro-credentials and lifelong learning opportunities to encourage continuous skill-building.

He said ASEAN should improve cross-border collaboration to strengthen research networks and enhance institutional capabilities.

Kao also stressed the need to cultivate scholars capable of leading universities and shaping academic direction across the region.

He said research output must produce tangible benefits in key fields such as agriculture, healthcare and green technology.

According to him, universities should take the lead in developing ASEAN-specific artificial intelligence governance frameworks, ensuring students learn to use such tools critically and responsibly.

Kao said graduates should also be equipped to advance circular economic practices and push for climate-resilient initiatives to support sustainable development.

“If we don’t act with urgency, our best students will continue to see their future elsewhere and our research will remain siloed by national boundaries.

“Higher education is among the most strategic investments. It is the foundation of our shared peace and prosperity, our bridge across borders and the engine that will drive innovation, productivity, and dynamism in ASEAN,” he said.