ASEAN member countries must establish frameworks that actively promote gender inclusivity in sports and create ecosystems where everyone can thrive equally.
Deputy Youth and Sports Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim said that gender equity in sports is a collective societal responsibility and moral obligation.
“We should also strengthen collaboration with regional and international organisations to generate innovative solutions to address gender equity challenges in sports,” he said in his closing remarks at the ASEAN Conference on Gender Equity in Sports 2025 on Thursday (June 26).
“We call upon all ASEAN member countries to continue empowering women, particularly in sports leadership and coaching, in line with the ASEAN Work Plan on Sports 2021-2025 and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.”
The four-day conference, which began on June 23, concluded with a strong call to reimagine the region’s sporting landscape through the lens of equity, inclusivity and excellence.
Adam Adli also stressed the importance of supporting the advancement of women into meaningful leadership and decision-making roles in sports, and not merely as a formality or quota.
He added that having more women in leadership and decision-making roles in sports would further drive institutional strength, resilience, innovation and inclusivity.
“To our ASEAN family, your active participation demonstrates our collective determination,” he added.
“It shows clearly that we refuse to accept the status quo and remain committed to improving gender equity and participation in sports across the region.” ‒ June 26, 2025
Main image: Bernama
