BANGKOK, Thailand – Participants and distinguished guests of the ASEAN Climate Leadership Programme (ACLP) III convened in a back-to-back event for the final module session (Module 6) and graduation ceremony held on 25 June 2025.
The final module provided a synthesis of the different models tackled throughout the programme and featured the presentations of the participants’ final Personal Change Projects (PCPs). The closing and graduation ceremony followed, which recognised the steadfast efforts of the participants, coaches, mentors, and the Secretariat team that organised the ACLP III from January to June this year.
Twenty-four professionals in government institutions, research organisations, civil society, and the public sector from eight ASEAN Member States completed the six-month leadership journey. Their active participation affirmed their unwavering commitment to inclusive and effective climate action for a sustainable future in the ASEAN region.
Key Takeaways from the Learning Journey
Ms Gaynor Tanyang, Co-Facilitator, synthesised the frameworks previously discussed in the past sessions, namely, the ACLP leadership model, systems thinking, theory U, and design thinking. She highlighted that in leadership, the value of shaping and influencing others to effect positive change. Ms Tanyang also emphasised the iterative nature of learning, the importance of listening, suspending judgment, and prototyping solutions. Participants reflected on these points, applying Theory U and integrated design thinking to their leadership journey through empathy, ideation, and iterative testing of solutions.
Based on the initial assessment of the ACLP III, the three most useful concepts for the participants are climate-smart actions and practices in ASEAN countries, Theory U, and Gender and Inclusion. Participants also appreciated the learning on risk communication and the importance of developing leadership plans. They also reflected on the most important things learned from the programme, highlighting systems thinking, open-mindedness, and the importance of engaging with stakeholders. The programme’s relevance, leadership development, and technical sessions were also evaluated, with most of the participants affirming the value and effectiveness of the programme’s content.
Translating Learnings into Action
- Participants in their small groups of thematic areas presented the final versions of their PCPs to their mentors and peers. Back at the plenary session, some of the highlighted PCPs per thematic group were: Low technology solution for women smallholders in Cambodia, emphasising community engagement and gender inclusivity practices (inclusive and gender-responsive policy development group );
- Urban agri-development project featuring a mushroom farming initiative in the Philippines that aims to provide nutritious food sources and manage organic waste (climate and nutrition group);
- Varacco’s Smart Farm – Farmer Scientist Training Program in the Philippines, focusing on modernising coffee production through technology and traditional practices (food systems group);
- Utilisation of solar panels in remote islands in Indonesia, highlighting the challenges of limited electricity access and the need for comprehensive analysis of solar energy implementation (emission reduction group);
- A video presentation on women’s empowerment through organic farming in Bogor, Indonesia (inclusive and gender-responsive policy development group).
The presentations featured innovative solutions and community impact. It showcased collaborative efforts to address local challenges and promote sustainable development in their respective localities.
Closing and Graduation Ceremony
The participants completed a six-month programme on climate-smart agriculture and leadership and were recognised for their accomplishments. Dignitaries and representatives from the implementing agencies provided participants with a challenge and inspiration on their journey after ACLP.
In his closing message, Mr Andre de Wit, Dean of the Amsterdam Leadership Academy and the programme’s lead facilitator, commended the participants for finishing strong. He also redefined VUCA to highlight the importance of Vision, Understanding, Connectedness, and Agility for future leaders.
Dr Mercedita A. Sombilla, Center Director of SEARCA, encouraged the ASEAN climate leaders to go beyond from learning to leading. “It is our strongest hope that what you have gained from ACLP will be translated into real climate action, be it in strategic planning, capacity-building, research, or policymaking,” she said.
Mr Florian Miss, AgriTrade II Commission Manager of GIZ, provided a comprehensive recap of the program’s achievements and outcomes. He also expressed gratitude to all collaborators that made the implementation of ACLP III successful.
Ms Teeraporn Wongchokprasit, Director of International Agricultural Affairs Group Planning and Technical Division of the Department of Agriculture in Thailand, reminded the climate leaders to inspire future leaders and sustain a robust network to facilitate transformational change.
Dr Johannes Kerner, Counsellor for Economic Affairs of the German Embassy in Bangkok, inspired the ACLP III cohort on their next journey towards transformational leadership in the ASEAN region and expressed the continued support of the German government to ASEAN in crafting solutions to address climate challenges for a sustainable future.
The ceremony concluded with the handover of certificates to the 24 participants, recognising their successful completion of the programme.
Prepared by: Elaine Llarena
Photo: GIZ/ Apisak Thuleewan, Van Tung Bui
