Malaysia to Lead ASEAN Youth Entrepreneurship in 2025: AYEC and MAYA to Chart New Growth

Malaysia to Host ASEAN 2025: A New Era for AYEC and MAYA in Young Entrepreneurship

In 2025, Malaysia will have the honor of hosting the ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Council (AYEC) as it celebrates its 10th anniversary. This milestone year not only marks a decade of impactful leadership and collaboration across the ASEAN region but also represents a significant opportunity for Malaysia and the Malaysian Young Entrepreneurs Association (MAYA) to drive the future of young entrepreneurship to new heights.

In a recent speech, Deborah Melissa Bottreau, founding Secretary General of AYEC and President of MAYA, expressed both gratitude and anticipation for the upcoming year. Reflecting on the exceptional leadership provided by the Young Entrepreneur Association of Laos over the past year, she praised the strides made under their chairmanship in promoting the ASEAN entrepreneurial spirit. Laos’ dedication has laid a strong foundation, preparing AYEC for a transformative year ahead.

2025: A Year of Celebration and Visionary Leadership

Under Malaysia’s chairmanship, AYEC aims to commemorate a Decade of Impact with the theme, "A Decade of Impact: Empowering the Future of ASEAN’s Young Entrepreneurs." This theme embodies AYEC’s journey over the past 10 years and reinforces its commitment to the future, symbolizing the Council’s dedication to cultivating a thriving ecosystem of young entrepreneurs in ASEAN.

"This milestone year is about more than looking back on what we’ve achieved," Deborah noted. "It’s about setting our sights on what’s next, empowering the next generation of ASEAN entrepreneurs to be resilient, innovative, and ready for the opportunities and challenges ahead."

The 10th ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Carnival: A Grand Gathering

A centerpiece of Malaysia’s 2025 chairmanship will be the 10th ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Carnival—an event like no other. Planned as a landmark celebration, the Carnival will showcase AYEC’s achievements, foster collaboration among ASEAN’s young leaders, and lay the groundwork for future partnerships. Entrepreneurs from across the region will gather in Malaysia, a country known for its diversity and cultural richness, for a week filled with impactful dialogues, exhibitions, and networking opportunities.

Deborah extended a heartfelt invitation to all, promising that "Malaysia is ready to welcome you with open arms. From the vibrant city life of Kuala Lumpur to the warmth and hospitality of our people, Malaysia will be the perfect backdrop for a grand celebration of our collective achievements and the ideal setting to envision the future of ASEAN entrepreneurship."

AYEC and MAYA: A Decade of Leadership, Unity, and Growth

As the official body for young entrepreneurs under ASEAN, AYEC has not only fostered a community of entrepreneurs across the region but has also elevated the voice of young business leaders in ASEAN’s economic discussions. Over the past decade, AYEC has successfully brought together diverse voices and talents, creating a powerful network that champions youth-led innovation and development in ASEAN. Deborah highlighted that AYEC’s impact stems from its role as more than just an organization: it is a community—a place where diverse cultures and backgrounds come together to pursue a shared goal of driving ASEAN’s future.

As the Founder & President of MAYA, Deborah is especially committed to showcasing Malaysia’s vibrant entrepreneurship landscape. MAYA, as the leading youth business association in Malaysia, will work closely with AYEC to make the 10th anniversary a landmark event. Through this partnership, AYEC and MAYA will emphasize initiatives that deepen regional partnerships, drive educational opportunities, and encourage new investments in ASEAN’s young talent.

2025: The Start of a New Era for ASEAN’s Young Entrepreneurs

Looking ahead, AYEC and MAYA have ambitious plans to shape the future of ASEAN’s youth in business. The 10-year milestone in 2025 is a launching pad for the next wave of growth, with a renewed focus on expanding AYEC’s membership, enhancing training and mentorship programs, and building stronger alliances with the private sector. These partnerships aim to offer more resources to young entrepreneurs, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and technology-driven world.

Reflecting on the decade ahead, Deborah shared her vision, stating, "AYEC and MAYA are committed to empowering ASEAN’s young entrepreneurs with the skills, networks, and opportunities they need to succeed. Together, we will build a future where ASEAN’s youth lead in resilience, innovation, and collaboration."

As Malaysia prepares to host AYEC in 2025, it is not only a celebration but also a time to dream big and set the course for the next decade of impact. The 10th ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Carnival will be more than an event; it will be a celebration of ASEAN unity, entrepreneurial ambition, and the unwavering drive to make a difference. Malaysia invites the region’s young entrepreneurs, leaders, and visionaries to join in this grand journey as AYEC and MAYA work together to elevate ASEAN’s future.