International Workshop on Urban Transformations in Southeast Asia: Insights from Global Researchers
The Institute of Asian Studies (IAS) at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) hosted a two-day workshop titled “Urban Transformations in Southeast Asia” from June 4 to June 5, 2025.
Overview of the Workshop
The event included 13 international speakers and seven local scholars who presented research papers related to urban transformations. Notable keynote speakers were Professor Gavin Shatkin from Northeastern University in the United States and Professor Tim Bunnell from the National University of Singapore.
Participants and Speakers
Participants included Dr. Erin Collins from Dartmouth College, Professor Erik Harms from Yale University, and Dr. Dian Irawaty from Rujak Centre for Urban Studies in Indonesia, among others. Local speakers featured Dayangku Dr. Noor Hasharina Pengiran Haji Hassan, Professor Hoon Chang-Yau of IAS, and Dr. Izni Azrein Noor Azalie from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences at UBD.
Opening Remarks
The workshop opened with remarks from Professor Noor Azam Haji Othman, Acting Director of IAS, and was officially launched by Dr. Hazri Haji Kifle, Vice-Chancellor of UBD. Dr. Hazri highlighted the importance of addressing urban issues through a sustainability lens across local, national, regional, and international contexts. This focus aligns with UBD’s Sustainability Master Plan, particularly its emphasis on promoting innovation and sustainable communities.
History of the Institute of Asian Studies
Since its founding in 2012, the IAS has organized numerous research workshops aiming to advance interdisciplinary scholarship in urban studies.
Feedback and Engagement
Attendees expressed appreciation for Brunei’s hospitality, with many visiting the country for the first time. Professor Gavin Shatkin noted the welcoming atmosphere and sense of community experienced during the workshop. Dr. Erin Collins remarked on the high level of organization, while Dr. Courtney Wittekind highlighted the unique opportunity for researchers to gather and focus on Southeast Asian urban studies.
Conclusion
The workshop facilitated a productive exchange of ideas and fostered potential collaborations in the field of urban studies.
(Source: Universiti Brunei Darussalam)
