The creative industries across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) represent a sophisticated, rapidly growing ecosystem fueled by a uniquely young, digitally fluent population. Adopted at the 46th ASEAN Summit, the ASEAN Creative Economy Sustainability Framework marks a transformational shift for the region. It establishes 10 guiding principles and 13 strategic priorities specifically designed to transition rich cultural capital into a unified global brand and collective voice.
To support the practical implementation of this vision, the ASEAN Secretariat, in partnership with the British Council and funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), has launched ASEAN Creative Economy Sustainability Framework: From Ideas to Impact - A Companion Guide.
Moving beyond traditional, siloed cultural policies, this landmark handbook acts as an implementation roadmap. Through a series of policy-led essays and call-to-action pieces, the Companion Guide outlines how the creative economy can be championed as an investable regional ecosystem and a powerful engine for inclusive growth, youth employment, and robust cross-border creation.
Key Areas of Focus
- A unified regional brand and global voice
The framework moves past fragmented local initiatives to build a cohesive Southeast Asian creative identity. By establishing a strategic, unified branding narrative, the guide outlines how ASEAN can position its creative sector collectively on the global stage. - Creative asset valuation and data mapping
Unlocking capital requires sophisticated structural tools. The guide explores advanced economic frameworks, including World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) data mapping models and specialised creative asset valuation systems, to build an investable infrastructure. - Improved financial access and investment
To turn creative potential into economic reality, the guide addresses the core barriers to funding. It details policy mechanisms and strategic corridors designed to improve financial access and attract long-term investment into creative enterprises. - Empowering grassroots and informal "gig" practitioners
A human-centered approach is central to the framework. The guide highlights methods to protect, professionalise, and uplift independent gig workers, grassroots creators, and young talent, ensuring sustainable and inclusive livelihood opportunities across the region.
Perspectives
- "The development of the ASEAN Creative Economy Sustainability Framework represents a significant achievement in regional cooperation. This new publication serves as both a practical resource and an inspirational call to action. It aims to advance the implementation of the framework while supporting key regional initiatives."
H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN - "This Companion Guide reflects the strength of ASEAN’s regional cooperation and the value of open, inclusive policymaking. It draws together the insights of policymakers, industry experts, and cultural practitioners. It also serves as a practical reference for advancing the Framework’s implementation across ASEAN’s diverse social, cultural, economic, and environmental contexts."
Helen Fazey, UK Ambassador to ASEAN - "With ASEAN’s uniquely young, digitally fluent population, the region holds unparalleled potential to become the primary global hub for creative innovation. This Framework represents a bold, human-centred approach to global disruption, and we remain a deeply committed partner in turning this regional vision into concrete, on-the-ground impact."
Summer Xia, Country Director Indonesia and Director Southeast Asia, British Council