On 9–10 October 2025, the ASEAN Quality Assurance Network (AQAN) held its Forum and General Assembly at Diamond Hotel Manila. The event brought together leaders of higher education quality assurance agencies, university representatives, and policymakers from across ASEAN member states. Indonesia was represented by LAM-PTKes / IAAHEH. The forum served as a strategic platform to strengthen regional cooperation in developing and harmonizing higher education quality assurance systems across Southeast Asia. Through panel discussions and plenary sessions, participants examined new policy directions in governance strengthening, quality evaluation systems, and cross-border recognition of higher education standards.

The event was officially opened by a representative of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) of the Philippines, who emphasized the importance of building “trust in quality assurance” as the fundamental foundation of higher education systems. The forum also marked the launch of AQAN’s Strategic Framework 2028 (RISE 2028), highlighting four key pillars: Regional Integration, Innovation, Sustainability, and Empowerment. Through this initiative, AQAN reaffirmed its commitment to developing an inclusive, adaptive, and globally relevant quality assurance system. In addition, a cooperation agreement was signed between AQAN, the ASEAN University Network (AUN), and the SEAMEO RIHED to strengthen regional collaboration in higher education.

The outcomes of the meeting underscored that quality assurance is not merely an administrative evaluation process, but a vital instrument for building public trust in graduates’ competencies and institutional integrity. The forum highlighted the importance of inclusivity in advancing QA development across ASEAN, ensuring that both well-established and developing institutions have equal opportunities to grow together. For Indonesia, participation in this event represents a significant opportunity to expand international collaboration, strengthen internal quality assurance systems, and accelerate the internationalization of higher education.

Overall, the AQAN General Assembly 2025 in Manila marked a new milestone in advancing higher education quality across the ASEAN region. Through a shared spirit of collaboration and innovation, the event reinforced the collective vision that quality education can only be achieved through mutual trust, transparency, and a strong commitment to continuous improvement.