Strengthening Statistical Collaboration in Southeast Asia: ISI SEA’s Vision for the Future 

Ottawa, Canada – On July 19, 2023, the International Statistical Institute (ISI) Southeast Asia (SEA) network convened in Ottawa to discuss expanding collaboration across the region. Attended by key representatives from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and ISI (Hague), the meeting emphasized ISI SEA's potential to facilitate international partnerships between academia, government bodies, central banks, and NGOs.

ISI SEA has been a vital platform for regional statistical collaboration, hosting conferences, webinars, and training to enhance statistical literacy and build capacity. Future plans include expanding these efforts with more online and offline events supported by ISI’s infrastructure in The Hague.

A key focus was addressing the needs of statisticians, particularly young professionals, through targeted training on research paper publication and data analysis. There was also a strong call for initiatives to improve statistical literacy among the general public.To enhance its impact, ISI SEA plans to engage more collaborators, including university associations, ASEAN Statistics, and national statistics offices, ensuring the network aligns with regional needs. The upcoming agenda will prioritize collaboration and capacity-building, driving the region toward greater statistical proficiency.

ISI SEA’s future is poised to foster deeper collaboration and development, contributing to the growth of Southeast Asia’s statistical capabilities.