By Dang Koe
Vientiane, Laos – Southeast Asia recently took a significant stride towards a more autism-inclusive future with the successful ASEAN Autism Congress 2025 and the accompanying ASEAN Autism Games, held from June 21 to 22. This landmark event brought together a diverse array of stakeholders at the Landmark Mekong River Hotel in Vientiane, Laos, marking a powerful regional commitment to championing the rights, inclusion, and empowerment of persons on the autism spectrum.
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Organized by the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN), in collaboration with its 10 member organizations, including the Autism Society Philippines (ASP), the Congress served as a dynamic platform for fostering collaboration and sharing vital insights. Participants engaged in discussions aimed at sharing best practices in advocacy, education, and community inclusion. A core objective was to strengthen regional ties among autism-related organizations and institutions, while also raising visibility for individuals on the spectrum through community engagement, sports, and cultural expression. Ultimately, the gathering aimed to foster a deeper acceptance and understanding of autism within ASEAN communities.
The Congress drew a diverse range of attendees, fostering inclusive dialogue. Delegates came from various countries across the region, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. The participants themselves were diverse, encompassing policymakers, educators, researchers, families, self-advocates, and youth leaders. The event included stakeholders on the autism spectrum and their families, as well as representatives from Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), NGOs like Humanity and Inclusion (HI) and CBM, and regional and international development partners.
Inspiring messages and stories resonated throughout the event. The opening featured a welcome from Ms Mannivan Kittilah of Laos' Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare (MLSW). Ms Jasmine Nadhira also shared a message of solidarity and commitment to disability-inclusive development from the ASEAN Secretariat’s Office of Poverty Eradication and Gender. Leaders from various AAN member countries showcased successful advocacy models.
ASP Chair Emerita Dang Koe, representing the Philippines, delivered an inspiring address reflecting on ASP’s 36-year journey. She highlighted the recent success of the Angels Walk for Autism, which gathered over 40,000 participants across the Philippines, symbolizing powerful community solidarity and awareness.
Preceding the Congress, the ASEAN Autism Games, held on June 21, celebrated the unique strengths and talents of individuals on the autism spectrum. Athletes from across ASEAN competed in a spirit of friendship and fun, demonstrating how inclusive sports and culture can effectively break barriers and build lasting bonds across borders.
This two-day celebration of advocacy, ability, and action marked a significant progression in the ASEAN-wide movement for autism inclusion. With renewed collaboration and a shared vision, the ASEAN Autism Congress 2025 reinforced the shared belief that a more inclusive future is not just a possibility, but a reality already actively unfolding.
Dang Koe is the Chair Emerita of Autism Society Philippines (ASP). She is a well-known advocate for autism inclusion in the Philippines and in the region. She was the winner of the inaugural ASEAN Prize in 2019 and has been the country’s representative to the board of the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN).
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