BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: A Bruneian professional is making his mark on the regional stage as the nation’s sole representative at the 2025 Young Leaders Dialogue hosted by the Asean-Australia Centre in Melbourne and Canberra.
Selected from nearly 5,000 applicants, Fauzi Said joined 30 outstanding young leaders from across Southeast Asia and Australia in the prestigious programme aimed at strengthening regional collaboration and leadership capacity.
“I am incredibly honoured to have been selected for this inaugural programme,” Fauzi said.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop leadership skills and connect with like-minded young individuals across the region. I am thankful to the Asean-Australia Centre and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for including a grateful Bruneian in this initiative.”
As a Senior Analyst for Carbon Management at Wood Mackenzie, Fauzi took part in a high-level panel on Australia’s role in facilitating trade within Asean, alongside Fiona Hoggart, Head of the Asean-Australia Centre; Patricia Holmes, Australia’s Chief Trade Law Officer; Chris Barnes of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Jason Verspuy from AusTrade.
During the session, Fauzi championed the issue of energy security and energy poverty as critical components for regional stability and prosperity. He noted that millions across Asean still lack access to modern energy services, with many relying on traditional fuels such as wood and charcoal.
“Providing energy security to those in need is not just an aid issue—it’s a strategic investment,” he said. “Empowering communities on the path to cleaner energy will enhance regional stability and prosperity. A more stable Asean means a more secure Australia and new opportunities for collaboration.”
The 12-week Young Leaders Dialogue, hosted by AsiaLink at the University of Melbourne, aims to deepen cross-cultural understanding, foster regional cooperation, and equip participants aged 25 to 35 with leadership skills to drive change in their home countries. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
