Asia Design Sharing 2025: Expanding Perspectives for a Design-Driven Future

On 21 and 22 October 2025, staff and students from the Master of Design Management (MDM) programme attended the Asia Design Sharing (ADS2025), a seminar and dialogue organized by the Malaysia Design Council (MRM) under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI). The event was held at the Seri Pacific Hotel, Kuala Lumpur and was organised in conjunction with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025.

Centred on the theme “Design–Driven Economy,” ADS2025 brought together design leaders and policymakers from across ASEAN to discuss how design contributes to innovation, sustainability, and economic progress. By engaging in these exchanges, MDM staff gained valuable regional perspectives that will further enrich classroom discussions, research directions, and design management practices.

For MDM student Lin Sook Ping, who joined the dialogue session, the event was an eye-opening experience. “The discussions deepened my understanding of how design thinking can influence real-world systems,” she said. “It was inspiring to see how different countries approach creativity and innovation within their own contexts.”

Deputy Dean Assoc Prof Dr Debbie Gan noted that the event supports the Faculty’s mission to ensure students benefit from current and globally relevant design insights. “ADS2025 provided valuable insights into regional design, innovation, and policy directions. The exchange of ideas across ASEAN will strengthen our teaching and research, preparing students to lead with creativity and purpose in a sustainable economy.”

MDM Programme Coordinator Asst Prof Arthur Liaw added, “The event was an inspiring experience for both staff and students. It broadened our perspectives on how creativity, innovation, and design thinking can drive positive change across the region.”
Through participation in initiatives like ADS2025, the Faculty continues to bring real-world engagement and regional awareness into the learning environment—preparing students to think critically, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to the creative economy.