ASEAN, known as one of the fastest-growing economic regions in Asia, continuous to increase its economic influence. To help Hong Kong youth broaden their international horizons and explore the development opportunities in this region, the Foundation organised two special experience tours in the first half of 2025: the ‘Strive and Rise Alumni Club Singapore and Malaysia Experience Tour' and the ‘Hong Kong University Students Indonesia Experience Tour'. These initiatives brought together 80 young people from Hong Kong to immerse themselves in the diverse cultures of ASEAN countries and discover the economic opportunities available for Hong Kong.  

1/ Strive and Rise Alumni Club Singapore and Malaysia Experience Tour  

The ‘Strive and Rise Alumni Club Singapore and Malaysia Experience Tour', fully funded by the Foundation and organised in collaboration with Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, took 40 underprivileged secondary school students on a five-day, four-night journey to explore the diverse cultures and economic vibrancy of Malaysia and Singapore.  

During the trip, students visited the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Singapore to gain insights into regional development. They engaged with students from the National University of Singapore to discuss higher education planning and toured the Yeo Hiap Seng factory to learn about business operations. They also held a dialogue with representatives from the United Youth Movement of Malaysia to share experiences in youth development.  

Community leaders guided the students through Singapore’s Our Tampines Hub community centre, where they learned how to utilise green technology to create a ‘zero-waste lifestyle’. They also visited an urban planning exhibition to explore the intricate design of the ‘Garden City’.  

The journey included visits to iconic landmarks such as strolling through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Melaka and George Town to indulge in their historical ambiance, exploring the Bukit Serene and the Cheng Ho Cultural Museum to appreciate traditional architecture, and visiting the National Museum of Malaysia and Merdeka Square. The students also took memorable photos at the Merlion Park in Singapore and embarked on a magical adventure at the Night Safari, bringing their trip to a fulfilling conclusion.  

2/ Hong Kong University Students Indonesia Experience Tour  

The ‘Hong Kong University Students Indonesia Experience Tour’ took 40 members of the ‘For Our Future’ Scholarship Alumni Association and students from various local universities on a multifaceted journey to experience Indonesia, ASEAN's largest economy.  

During the five-day, four-night trip, students explored Jakarta's economic hub, the historical city of Bandung, and the natural wonders of active volcanoes, immersing themselves in Indonesia's rich culture and dynamic development. The itinerary included various exchange activities: visiting the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Jakarta to learn about new collaboration opportunities, discussing academic research directions with faculty and students at Universitas Indonesia, and touring PT Indofood, a leading Southeast Asian food company, to understand its operational model. They also witnessed the results of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Rail project, a key component of0 the Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, students engaged in discussions with representatives from the Indonesian Young Entrepreneurs Association to share insights on innovation and entrepreneurship.  

Cultural exploration was equally exciting, covering significant sites from the Medan Merdeka, symbolising the country's independence, to the colonial history of Old Batavia. They visited the Jakarta National Museum, which showcases millennia of civilisation, and the Asian-African Conference Museum, which embodies the ‘Bandung Spirit’. The adventure culminated with a trek up the stunning Mount Tangkuban Perahu, offering a breathtaking view of nature's grandeur. 

3/ Vietnam Experience Tour (Official name to be confirmed)

Date: December 18-22, 2025

Details: To be confirmed