The panel session entitled "How University Students Can Contribute to SDG Progress in Social Protection" during the APRU SDG4GC 2025 On-Site Programme at Universiti Malaya featured SWRC's speakers Dr Amjad Rabi and Dr Aizat Zainal Alam, and was moderated by Professor Yong Zulina Zubairi. The participants were university students from different ASEAN countries. This diverse group of students, representing various ASEAN member states, came together to engage in meaningful discussions and share their unique perspectives on social protection within the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The session highlighted the importance of youth engagement in social protection and how students from across ASEAN collaborated to address regional and global challenges. By bringing together students from multiple ASEAN countries, the panel fostered intercultural dialogue and teamwork, promoting a shared commitment to advancing social protection and inclusivity in the region.
The interaction among students from different ASEAN cities enriched the discourse, reflecting the varied socio-economic contexts and experiences within the region, while building solidarity and collective action toward achieving the SDGs. This session was part of a broader programme that emphasised diversity, equity, and inclusivity, empowering students as global citizens ready to contribute innovative solutions to community and sustainability issues.
Overall, the panel session served as an important platform for ASEAN university students to express their insights, collaborate on social innovations, and contribute to progress on SDG goals, strengthening youth leadership and regional cooperation in social protection.