UNAIR NEWS – Winda Ayu D Riantie, a student of the Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), was selected as a participant in the ASEAN-China Young Leaders Program (ACYLP) Model Meeting ASEAN Plus China 2023. The event occurred on June 18 – 24, 2023, in Siem Rep, Cambodia.

AFMAM Plus China is a program that aims to introduce the role and functions of ASEAN to young people interested in studying international relations and diplomacy issues. It also aims to provide more insight to the younger generation regarding diplomacy between ASEAN countries and China.

Winda explained that in the program, all selected participants would get hands-on experience regarding a simulation meeting of leaders in ASEAN countries and China. On this occasion, she had the opportunity to represent the Philippines. “Every country must make a strategic paper and position paper which will be discussed at the simulation meeting with all ASEAN countries plus China. Each team has three roles: Senior Official, Minister, and Head of Government. I myself was assigned to be the Minister,” said the Management study program student.

As it was her first experience, Winda admitted that she had difficulties in writing strategic and position papers. However, she is grateful because her colleagues help her and provide supporting references so she can learn directly from them.

Furthermore, she is also glad because she could experience and learn about other cultures and expand her network with her colleagues in ASEAN and China. “I could also understand diplomacy and international issues, especially ASEAN and China. I learned the roles of the country’s leaders during international meetings,” said Winda.

Tips for participating in international activities 

In the end, Winda gave students several tips for participating in international activities that can be fully funded. According to her, there are three ways students can do it.

First, don’t hesitate to ask others’ help revising your essay or video during the selection process. Second, look for topics that are currently viral or booming as essay material and do research. Finally, follow and update accounts that provide information on international activities, such as @aseanfoundation, @apyouths, and @globalunair accounts. (*)

Author: Rafli Noer Khairam

Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia