Sejahtera - the art of sustainability and well-being. A report on Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9
When our host Prof. Dzulkifli Abdul Razak, Rector of the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) walked to the lectern at the International Youth Centre in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia to open the Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9 (APFN9) on the 18th of September, he opened my mind to the Malaysian concept of sejahtera.
Sejahtera is described by M. Kamal Hassan (2020) from IIUM as:
“A state of holistic and integrated wellbeing consisting of success, happiness, security and balance in this world and in the hereafter."
It is a concept that encompasses both material and spiritual well-being and goes beyond just individual welfare to include collective and environmental dimensions. What has this got to do with foresight and futures thinking? Well, I asked myself the same question.
As a practitioner of foresight, I spend a lot of time positioning, explaining, and working at the entry level of the foresight world, using established foresight tools and methods to encourage and support more structured longer-term thinking amongst my predominantly corporate clients. As many practitioners are aware the practical use of foresight amongst a broader audience is still emerging as a mainstream activity. In bringing together academia, industry, and government together APFN9 played a leadership role in allowing a broad range of stakeholders to be exposed to more advanced foresight thinking. Whilst I had always thought of foresight as a tool to anticipate and shape futures, Prof. Dzulkifli's opening words helped me step forward into a world where foresight was also about finding sustainable and holistic solutions for current and future challenges. It became more than just preparing for what might happen next. It became a method for thinking and doing, to create better futures for all.
The concept of sejahtera was the perfect thread that flowed throughout APFN9 linking the various speakers on their research, projects, and initiatives towards creating positive futures for not only individuals but also communities and the environment in the Asia Pacific region. It placed increasing emphasis on the role of foresight in leading initiatives that will play a crucial role in building an inclusive, diverse, and sustainable world.
The Dao of Foresight - the inner journey.
As Riel Miller previous Head of Futures Literacy at UNESCO invoked the idea of a Dao of foresight, I sat up a little straighter. As an enthusiast of Asian religion and spirituality, the idea of a state of harmony and balance with all things within a foresight frame intrigued me. It aligned well with sejahtera, the idea that individual well-being is interconnected with societal and environmental well-being. It is logical that foresight functions not only on a macro level but also on an individual level - an introspective voyage towards thinking and behaving with a long-term perspective. Riel noted that our inner thoughts, beliefs, and values are the foundations for our actions, and foresight is a way to align these with creating positive futures. In his words;
"How we anticipate matters, it changes our futures." - Riel Miller
Ora-orn Poocharoen's review of her work at Chiang Mai University on a method combining Wilber's Integral Theory and Inayahtullah's Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) as a starting point for using foresight and exploring this inner journey provided another link in the chain. Using the framework as a reflective tool for individuals and groups to question their underlying assumptions about what they do and why. Engaging in self-reflection prompts us to consider a broader range of options, potentialities, and prospects within the futures we are shaping.
Marcus Anthony from Beijing Institute of Technology added to this inner foresight exploration by sharing his ideas on integrated intelligence and harnessing the power of the mind to tap into intuition to pursue what we truly want, and the role artificial intelligence (AI) could have in expanding humanities ability to influence and shape the deep futures we desire. It was a thought-provoking session, unfortunately cut short due to time constraints, but undoubtedly a glimpse into some of the more expansive thinking about the inner foresight path and the role of technology in this journey.
AI - implications before applications.
It would not be a conference in 2023 if the role and impact of AI were not explored at some level. At APFN9, the topic was addressed from different perspectives ranging from the macro system level to the on-the-ground practitioner.
In her keynote speech, Rose Alinda Alias, Head of the Malaysia National Artificial Intelligence Roadmap (2021-2025) Task Force gave an entertaining and refreshingly technology-free presentation (delivered without PowerPoint slides) encouraging us not to fear but to embrace the opportunity AI presents. This tied in well with the practical considerations of using technology in foresight practice by Fanette Brandalac and Roberta Pesce from the strategic dialogue team at World Health Organisation (WHO) whose experience in using foresight to enhance inclusivity provided valuable insights.
The moderated panel session on "Societies shaping technologies, technologies shaping societies?" moderated by Zainal Abidin Sanusi Director, Sejahtera Centre for Sustainability and Humanity at IIUM encouraged attendees to explore the implications of AI as much as the applications. It is the implications on our futures of how we use this new technology that will be shaping our world as much as the technology itself.
Societies shaping technologies, technologies shaping societies? [Moderated panel session]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
As many of the discussions at APFN9 demonstrated, AI has the potential to greatly impact various aspects of how we think, plan, and engage with futures thinking. As we move towards increasingly AI-driven futures, it is important to continue these discussions and engage in critical reflection on the role of technology in shaping our world.
Foresight in Action - practical examples from the field.
Supporting the stretch thinking provided by academia and industry experts were the many practical examples of foresight work in action, and the outcomes being achieved across the Asia Pacific region. In his keynote address Odeh Rashed Al-Jayyousi, ICESCO Chair, IIUM, addressed the dichotomy that;
"Researchers seem to be more interested in proposing new techniques focusing on technical novelty, while practitioners are interested in solutions that work in their context, regardless of novelty." - Odeh Rashed Al-Jayyousi
It was this tension between novel technique and practice that created such a powerful dynamic at APFN9.
Senator Pia S Cayetono from the Philippines spoke of the journey her country had taken on its road to incorporating foresight techniques in a practical and constructive manner. Senator Cayetono had led the creation of the first-ever senate committee on SDGs, innovation and futures thinking in the Philippines to track progress on SGDS to prepare for various futures and to shift mindsets towards futures thinking as a major policy reform. Focusing on the futures of health, education, and work, underpinned by a firm commitment to "intergenerational fairness", Senator Cayetono provided a powerful example of nation-state foresight in action in the Philippines by;
"Putting ourselves 20 or 30 years (or more) into the future and preparing for a future that the next generations will thank us for." - Senator Pia S Cayetono
Futures thinking in practice. [Conference presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
As we all know real work requires funding and recently the Philippines has allocated funds for the first time through the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) for strategic foresight training for Philippine government officials. A timely reminder of the importance of funding for training and development of foresight skills.
An impressive example of foresight in action came from the corporate sector when Susann Roth Chief of Knowledge Management at Asian Development Bank (ADB) and her team gave us a detailed view of the journey, started in 2018, that ADB had taken in embedding foresight into its corporate DNA. By embedding foresight methodology across business strategy and culture the ADB was delivering results across innovation, gender inclusivity and law and policy reform. Their list of what works when implementing foresight into a business included - leadership and commitment, linking to organisational priorities, shared ownership and keeping it fun, diversity and teamwork, humility and collaboration, and a commitment to challenging biases and assumptions.
From Imagination to Implementation: Futures at the ADB. [Conference presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Another fascinating presentation on foresight in action came from Kritiya Keomahakarl, Supawan Klungphukieow and Noppasorn Keaworrasarn from the Foresight Team, at the National Intelligence Agency of Thailand on how they are using foresight to scan for signals and write recommendations for Thailand security chiefs. Intriguing! Some lucky delegates also got to experience playing a new foresight game called "Dreams and Disruptions" from Shermon Cruz and the Center for Engaged Foresight. A great tool to engage in thinking about, and playing with, futures.
Stretching my mind into a new practical use of foresight was Ivana Milojević, Director and Instructor of MetafutureSchool who presented on using foresight in conflict resolution and;
"The constructive use of foresight as a resource for conflict transformation and building of peaceful, wellbeing inclusive societies." - Ivana Milojević
A compelling case on how foresight can be applied in a novel context to bring about positive change through understanding and addressing underlying factors of conflict. It was a reminder that foresight is not just about predicting futures, but also about shaping them for the better.
The practical example that resonated most strongly for me was the small team with big dreams from the Pacific Community. Emily Sharp and her team gave an incredibly insightful review of their experiences bringing foresight principles to engage and empower communities in the future prosperity and well-being of the Pacific region. By linking foresight methods to regional values of Enginkehlap (Generosity), Kaitiakitanga (Stewardship) Gida Gaituvwa (Unity) and Aroha (Care) the Pacific Community provided a perfect loop back to the concepts of sejahtera and the Dao of foresight. The team emphasised the importance of involving stakeholders from all Pacific communities in foresight projects and understanding cultural nuances to effectively bring about positive change in their world. Their soon-to-be-published foresight workbook which will showcase the use of tools and methods within a Pacific context is one to look out for. (Update 14/12/23 - you can now see this excellent workbook here.)
Oceanic Futures: Indigenous ways of knowing, Pacific practice, and impact. [Moderated Panel Session]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Knowledge and Networks.
Whilst the academic and practical presentations, panels and workshops were invaluable it was the moments between sessions that yielded the magic in APFN9. The opportunity to connect with fellow delegates from around the Asia Pacific region, sharing insights, experiences and ideas was truly invaluable. This conference provided a platform for academics, students, industry professionals and government officials to come together in a collaborative environment focused on promoting inclusive, diverse, and sustainable futures.
It is through these networks that we can continue to exchange knowledge and collaborate on foresight projects and initiatives. As we move towards a more interconnected and complex world, the importance of diverse networks cannot be underestimated. They provide us with new perspectives, ideas and ultimately lead to more innovative, and impactful solutions.
One of the most impactful connection experiences I had was participating in a group discussion on envisioning "post-capitalist" futures. During this group conversation, I got to listen to Ambreen Sultan, a PhD student from IIUM, share her research on Islamic economics and her insights on creating a fairer and more humane monetary system. The exchange was incredibly enriching, with a multitude of diverse and well-informed perspectives. It left a lasting impression on me, and I will carry those thoughts with me for a long time to come.
The Futures of APFN.
Concluding the conference with closing remarks was Sohail Inayatullah, UNESCO Chair in Futures Studies at IIUM, who shared further insights from his remarkable journey in foresight. Throughout the day, Sohail generously recounted stories from his experiences in Pakistan, the USA, Malaysia, and Australia, reflecting on the importance of thinking differently, promoting new ideas, and maintaining resilience in the face of resistance. The key takeaway for me was that if your ideas and methods can yield results and outcomes, even the most resistant individuals will eventually be won over. It is perfectly fine to embrace a different perspective, even if it sometimes makes you feel a bit "alien" - rest assured, you will always find your tribe. Sohail's leadership at APFN9 from his experienced reflections and easily understood narratives to his considered curation and encouragement of so many of the speakers and delegates was greatly appreciated.
I am looking forward to APFN10 in 2024 in Bangkok with (hopefully) a side trip to Chiang Mai, APFN11 in the Philippines in 2025 and the possibility of a smaller APFN10.5 in the Pacific at some stage soon. The futures are bright for the Asia Pacific Futures Network, and I am grateful to have been a part of this inspiring and thought-provoking conference. I cannot wait to see how our diverse networks continue to shape and contribute towards positive futures of sustainability and well-being in the region. Let's stay connected, keep sharing our ideas, and work towards creating a better world for all. Thank you APFN9!
References.
M. Kamal Hassan. (16 June 2020) The Malay Concept of Sejahtera from An Islamic Perspective: An Introduction.International Islamic University, Malaysia https://www.iium.edu.my/media/56213/The%20Malay%20Concept%20of%20Sejahtera%20from%20an%20Islamic%20Prespective%20-%20An%20Introduction.pdf
Miller, R. (2023, September 18-19). How to be a guerrilla futurist in a world of planetary disruptions and institutional resistance. [Conference presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Poocharoen, O. et al (2023, September 18-19). Spirituality, Foresight, and Public Policy: Sharing of Experiments from Thailand. [Moderated conference session]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Anthony, M. (2023, September 18-19). The AI Explosion: Opportunities and Threats for the Futures of Mind. [Moderated session presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Brandalac, F. and Pesce, R. (2023, September 18-19). Technology and Wellbeing in the Western Pacific Region: Considerations from foresight-based engagements. [Moderated session presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Sanusi, Z.A, Rahman, R. Sharp, E. Poocharoen, O. (2023, September 18-19). Societies shaping technologies, technologies shaping societies? [Moderated panel session]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Alias, R.A. (2023, September 18-19). Artificial Intelligence: Boon or Bane for Teaching & Learning? [Conference presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Al-Jayyousi, O,R. (2023, September 18-19). Bridging the Gaps among Academia, Industry, and Society for Sustainable Futures. [Conference presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Cayetano, Pia S, Senator. (2023, September 18-19). Futures thinking in practice. [Conference presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Roth, S. Hung, S. Pak, C. (2023, September 18-19). From Imagination to Implementation: Futures at the ADB. [Conference presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Cruz, S. (2023, September 18-19). New and Radical Imaginaries for an Emerging Civilization: A Dreams and Disruptions Game. [Conference workshop]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Milojević, I. (2023, September 18-19). Civilisational Responses to Conflict. [Moderated Panel Session]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Sharp, E. Mecartney, S. Griffiths, K. Hazelman, C. (2023, September 18-19). Oceanic Futures: Indigenous ways of knowing, Pacific practice, and impact. [Moderated Panel Session]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Inayatullah, S. (2023, September 18-19). Never Arriving: Destinations on the Arkath to Foresight. [Conference Presentation]. Asia Pacific Futures Network Conference 9, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
