The World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Davos has brought together the world’s foremost leaders, thinkers, and changemakers to address pressing global challenges and opportunities. As a proud partner of the World Economic Forum, QI Group was represented by Executive Chairman Vijay Eswaran, along with Chairperson of RYTHM Foundation Umayal Eswaran, Group Managing Director Kuna Senathirajah, JR Mayer, Director of International Operations, Zaheer Merchant, Director of Corporate & Legal Affairs, and Ramya Chandrasekaran, Group Chief Communications Officer.
“What we witnessed at Davos this year was unprecedented – ASEAN’s presence and influence have grown exponentially compared to a decade ago,” reflects our Executive Chairman. With a population of 600 million and diverse markets, ASEAN is no longer just a promising region; it’s rapidly becoming the next economic powerhouse. For QI Group, this is more than just a statistic—it’s a call to action. Our roots in the region give us a unique perspective and a profound responsibility to contribute meaningfully to ASEAN’s progress.
Vijay Eswaran participated in an ASEAN-specific roundtable alongside notable leaders such as Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A (AirAsia Group), José Manuel Ramos-Horta, President of Timor-Leste—a country poised to join ASEAN—and Ferdinand Martin Gomez Romualdez, Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Philippines.
The discussions highlighted ASEAN’s dynamic role in the evolving global landscape, focusing on the transformative impact of technology, particularly generative AI and quantum computing. This new era underscores the importance of continuous reskilling to harness AI’s potential while maintaining our human-centred values.
Sustainable development was equally prominent, with discussions emphasising energy transition, renewable investments, and the critical role of nuclear energy in decarbonisation and energy security. ASEAN’s progress in digital connectivity, driven by initiatives like the Masterplan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025, demonstrates the region’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable growth. These dialogues reinforced the need to turn visionary goals into tangible actions, particularly in digital trade and sustainable development.
On the sidelines of WEF, Vijay Eswaran was interviewed by Malaysia’s leading digital broadcast station, Astro Awani, and Reuters, where he shared his insights on the future of education and ASEAN’s growing significance in global economic and political landscapes, respectively.
Watch the full Astro Awani and Reuters interviews below:
Looking Ahead
Our participation in WEF 2025 has reinforced QI Group’s commitment to ASEAN’s development. As we expand our presence across the region, we remain focused on initiatives that foster connectivity, empower youth, and drive sustainable growth. The message from Davos is clear: ASEAN’s time has come, and QI Group is proud to be at the forefront of this exciting transformation.
By embracing our strengths while pursuing bold innovation, we’re helping to write the next chapter in ASEAN’s success story. The connections forged, and insights gained at Davos will continue to inform our strategy as we work towards realising ASEAN’s full potential.
