Asia Pacific Roundtable a chance to connect and represent on an international stage

Xavier (far left) with fellow Asia Pacific Roundtable delegates

“When your feet are on the ground, your ears are closer to the truth.”

Living in Aotearoa New Zealand is both a blessing and a barrier. The blessing is that we live in a beautiful corner of the world, surrounded by unique flora and fauna, cultural diversity, and a strong sense of community shaped by Te Ao Māori and our place in the Pacific. We benefit from political stability, social cohesion, and access to high-quality produce and products.

One of the barriers, however, is our distance from much of the world. That separation can make us feel removed from global realities and limit our engagement with complex international issues, especially those unfolding across Asia.

Attending the 38th Asia-Pacific Roundtable in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, reaffirmed for me the importance of being physically present in international discussions. When building relationships with key regions, such as Asia, it matters that we are on the ground, listening, engaging, and learning directly from those at the centre of these conversations.

Xavier: "One powerful message echoed throughout the Roundtable: 'We must be the speakers, not the spoken for.'

A prominent theme throughout the discussions was the evolving influence of China-US geopolitics on dynamics within ASEAN. While these conversations were timely and significant, there appeared to be an opportunity to adopt a more strengths-based lens.

Greater emphasis on ASEAN’s long-standing and growing partnerships with countries such as New Zealand and Australia, as well as the potential for deeper collaboration with the Pacific, could have also enriched the dialogue. These relationships, underpinned by shared cultural affinities and mutual interests in areas like geopolitics and climate resilience, offer valuable avenues for future engagement.”

Another insight was the role Malaysia plays as a central, mediating force within ASEAN. It felt like a big brother figure, helping to hold the region together and encourage cohesion.

One powerful message echoed throughout the Roundtable: “We must be the speakers, not the spoken for.”

Xavier: " I was grateful to see the Foundation's Suzannah Jessep and fellow NextGen delegate Fine Koloamatangi bring critical Pacific perspectives to the APR panels..."

This resonated deeply. The Pacific is often referenced in regional conversations without meaningful representation. I was grateful to see the Foundation's Suzannah Jessep and fellow NextGen delegate Fine Koloamatangi bring critical Pacific perspectives to the APR panels and make space for our voices.

Like many New Zealanders, I often rely on a mix of local and international news outlets and professional networks to stay informed about global affairs. But there is no substitute for hearing directly from people living amid those headlines.

Speaking with delegates and locals gave me a deeper appreciation for how regional and global dynamics are experienced in real life. These conversations provided invaluable context for discussions on ASEAN’s influence, the evolving US-China relationship, perspectives on New Zealand and the Pacific, and Malaysia’s internal dialogue on race and faith.

Alongside the Roundtable, we participated in the NextGen Masterclass, facilitated by James To from the Asia New Zealand Foundation.

This was a standout experience. It provided a clear and engaging introduction to the purpose and value of Track II diplomacy. These informal spaces allow academics, community leaders, civil society actors, and young thinkers to come together and explore ideas outside the confines of formal government-to-government processes.

Fine speaking at the NextGen Masterclass

It was an opportunity to learn, connect, and reflect with emerging leaders from across the Asia–Pacific region. One of the highlights was building authentic friendships and networks before the conference, which made the experience less nerve-wracking in a hall full of new people and faces. I have also continued talking and staying connected with many of these Next Gen colleagues beyond the conference.

Being in Malaysia and attending the Asia-Pacific Roundtable was a powerful reminder that, although New Zealand is geographically isolated, we are far more connected to Asia than we sometimes realise. Decisions made in or about Asia can have real and lasting implications for New Zealand. These include areas such as trade, political strategy, education, cultural influence, migration, and people-to-people connections.

Experiences like these also remind us that diplomacy is not just the work of officials or policy experts; it is a vital component of everyday life. It lives in shared meals, quiet conversations, cultural exchange, and time spent listening with humility. To truly understand a place, you need to be there. Because when your feet are on the ground, your ears are closer to the truth.

The Foundation's Track II programme supports informal diplomacy with thinktanks in Asia on issues and challenges facing the region.

Our NextGen Track II programme offers opportunities for tertiary students and young professionals to kick start their future in foreign, trade and security policy through NextGen activity.