Technology Innovations in Social Enterprise and the Social and Solidarity Economy for the SDGs

Manila, Philippines — November 5–7, 2025

By Ms Zoel Ng, Director of MySDG Academy

The 2025 Philippine Social Enterprise Roadmap Conference brought together mission-driven actors across ASEAN to reimagine how innovation, community solidarity, and digital transformation can drive the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) towards delivering the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Held at the QC M.I.C.E. Center, this year’s conference themed “Technology Innovations in Social Enterprise and the Social and Solidarity Economy for the SDGs”, hosted critical conversations at the intersection of tech, policy, and purpose.
Malaysia’s delegation was proudly represented by leaders from APPGM-SDG — Dr Khairil, Zoel, and Ara — alongside corporate ally Sean (Corporation), and regional partners Dr Eri and Dr Victor (ASEC).

Multi-Session Engagement

The delegation contributed actively across the three-day event:
Day 1 Plenary: Set in motion by the team and providing a strategic overview on the ASEAN SDG-SSE Roadmap.
Day 2 Action Workshop: Focused on cross-sectoral collaboration to enhance the support and resources for the ASEAN SDG-SSE Roadmap.
Day 3 Dual Presentations: Dr Khairil at Measuring Impact of Social Enterprises and Development Work & Zoel at Dialogue on Continuing the ASEAN Agenda for the SDGs and Conference Closing.

What We Took Home: Reflections & Insights

1. ASEAN SDG Roadmap Gaining Traction
The ASEAN SDG localization roadmap has received overwhelming affirmation — with growing interest beyond the core countries (Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand). As momentum builds, there’s an urgent call to expand our outreach and identify champions across all ten ASEAN nations. Localization must now evolve into regional alignment.

2. Solidarity vs. Consultancy: A Powerful Reframe
Dr Eri captured the emotional heartbeat of the movement when he said:
“We are a group of solidarity. Even without contracts, we move with passion and vision.”
Echoing this, Dr Victor shared that the grassroots movements in the Philippines, which date back to the 1960s and 70s, are among the most organized in the region — proof that structure, discipline, and people-powered resilience are key to system change. The distinction between solidarity (bottom-up) and consultancy (top-down) is not just linguistic — it’s strategic.

3. Digital Innovation is the New Currency
From e-registries to digital footprint tracking, the conference emphasized the need for tech-enabled visibility. The future of the social enterprise ecosystem relies heavily on our ability to be seen, be connected, and be acknowledged — especially in policymaking and funding circles. Participants were urged to onboard onto digital platforms that ensure connectivity, collaboration, and shared recognition.

The Five Domains of Social Enterprise Impact
Presented by Dr. Ben, this impact matrix offers a vital framework for evaluating social enterprises in the ASEAN context. Each domain underscores the integrated, systemic value of mission-driven organizations:

This holistic lens ensures that measurement is not confined to profits — but also reflects prosperity, people, planet, peace, and partnership. It is a timely tool for practitioners, funders, and policymakers alike.

Looking Ahead: From Conference to Action

The Bayan Family of Foundations and its co-convenors succeeded not just in sparking dialogue — but in seeding movements. As we return home, the responsibility now shifts to how we activate this momentum locally while staying connected regionally.

From Zoel’s closing remarks:

“True networking is more than exchanging name cards or capturing good looking photos. It begins with genuine friendship — and, when nurtured, grows into a source of inspiration and positive influence. Together, we don’t just connect — we co-create the dreams we dare to believe in.”

Let’s ensure this moment becomes a movement.

ASEAN is ready. Are we?

Source : assec.com.my