REDEFINING POWER, PURPOSE & PROGRESS THROUGH INCLUSIVITY AND ACTION

In a rapidly changing world marked by conflict, inequality, and the urgent demand for democratic renewal, the role of courageous and values-driven leadership has never been more essential. This In Conversation With session features Her Excellency Atifete Jahjaga, Former President of the Republic of Kosovo, whose historic election as the first woman and youngest head of state in Kosovo stands as a landmark moment for women's leadership and democratic transformation. Her Excellency's presidency was distinguished by an unwavering commitment to building democratic institutions, strengthening the rule of law, advancing human rights, and fostering reconciliation in a society emerging from conflict. Beyond her tenure in office, she has continued to play an influential role on the global stage, championing women's empowerment, peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, and inclusive development as cornerstones of a more just and stable world.

In this exclusive dialogue, Her Excellency will reflect on her extraordinary journey of leadership, offering insights into the resilience, empathy, and integrity required to lead a young democracy through pivotal moments. She will share her vision of how inclusive leadership can break barriers, heal divides, and inspire meaningful progress, while also highlighting the importance of empowering women and youth as active agents of change. This conversation promises to be an inspiring exchange, reminding participants that true leadership is defined not only by the offices one holds, but by the courage to act with purpose, compassion, and a steadfast belief in the power of inclusivity to transform societies for the better.

NAVIGATING CHANGE: LEADERSHIP, GOVERNANCE, AND TRUST IN A TRANSFORMING WORLD

As societies confront unprecedented shifts - from digital transformation and demographic change to climate urgency and evolving social norms - the need for inclusive, principled, and future-ready public leadership has never been greater. Within the WE2025: Future in Motion context, this timely panel brings together distinguished honourable minister, ambassadors, Members of Parliament, and former ministers to examine how governments and institutions can build public trust, foster social equity, and lead with integrity in an age of complexity.

Grounded in the values of good governance and inclusive policymaking, the session explores how visionary leadership can drive systems change, empower communities, and ensure that public institutions remain resilient and responsive. Panellists will offer insights on strengthening governance structures, addressing barriers to participation, and reimagining leadership for a more inclusive, just, and sustainable future.

BREAKING THE CODE: INNOVATION, INCLUSION, AND THE NEXT DIGITAL FRONTIER

In today’s hyperconnected world, technology is no longer just a tool, it is a catalyst for societal transformation. From artificial intelligence and quantum computing to green technology and digital infrastructure, the way we innovate today will shape how we live, lead, and grow in the future.

This exclusive conversation explores how national, regional, and global strategies can unlock the full potential of human capital - particularly by creating meaningful opportunities for underrepresented groups, including women - to thrive in the innovation economy.

Framed through the lens of inclusion, enterprise, and impact, the dialogue will examine Malaysia’s vision for tech-driven growth, the role of ASEAN and international collaboration, and the forward-looking policies required to future-proof economies in an era of rapid disruption.

STEAMM FORWARD: WHAT IS THE FUTURE?

The future is no longer defined by one discipline or one region - it is being shaped by the convergence of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics, and Mindsets (STEAMM) across borders, sectors, and generations. In this era of accelerated innovation, how we educate, empower, and engage the next wave of talent will determine the world we live in tomorrow.

This global dialogue brings together pioneers, educators, and entrepreneurs to explore the power of STEAMM to unlock inclusive innovation, shape future-ready industries, and build resilient societies. From artificial intelligence and green technology to aerospace, biotech, and creative economies - the conversation goes beyond the technical to embrace ethical leadership, design thinking, and emotional intelligence.

How can countries like Malaysia and the broader ASEAN region, in collaboration with international partners, position themselves as global hubs for talent, inclusion, and impact? And how do we ensure the future is not just high-tech, but also high-touch - human-centred, values-driven, and accessible to all?

WOMEN 2050: NAVIGATING MEGATRENDS AND SHAPING THE FUTURE ECONOMY

Women 2050: Navigating Megatrends and Shaping the Future Economy explores the powerful forces redefining the global landscape and the pivotal role women will play in shaping the future economy. As we stand at the crossroads of rapid technological advancement, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and accelerating climate imperatives, this keynote by McKinsey & Company delves into the five defining megatrends that will impact women’s economic participation and leadership over the next decade.

From the rise of the female economy and the digitization of the workplace to women's expanding influence in climate action and governance, this presentation provides a strategic outlook grounded in global research, regional insights, and scenario-based foresight. It highlights how women are not just adapting to change but driving it.

With a focus on Malaysia, Southeast Asia and emerging markets, particularly the Global South, McKinsey outlines opportunities and risks ahead while offering actionable recommendations for governments, corporations, and institutions. The session concludes with a bold call to action to invest in inclusive systems that accelerate women’s leadership, innovation, and influence across all sectors.

This keynote aims to equip policy-makers, business leaders, and change agents attending WE2025 with the foresight to shape a more inclusive, resilient, and prosperous future.

NOT JUST A SEAT AT THE TABLE: INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC POWER

Representation alone is no longer sufficient. Meaningful progress demands embedding inclusion into the very engine room of the economy. In this exclusive conversation, Malaysia’s Minister of Economy shares insights on translating inclusive economic strategies into measurable, sector-wide outcomes.

From broadening access to capital and rebalancing labour participation to redesigning policy frameworks, the dialogue will explore how nations like Malaysia, and the wider ASEAN region can unlock the full potential of their diverse populations. This session positions inclusive economic power not as a moral imperative, but as a strategic driver of national resilience, innovation, and global competitiveness.

This is not just about opening doors - it’s about reshaping the room altogether.

THE REAL ECONOMY: WHO GETS FUNDED, WHO GETS HEARD, WHO LEADS?

Beneath the headlines and high-level commitments lies the real economy - where decisions about funding, voice, and leadership shape the future. This high-impact panel brings together thought leaders, investors, and changemakers to examine the structural and cultural dynamics that determine who gets access, who is amplified, and who sets the agenda.

From inclusive capital flows and equitable procurement to leadership representation and innovation ecosystems, the conversation will explore how to disrupt legacy biases and build economies that reflect the full spectrum of talent and potential. Drawing on experiences across Malaysia, ASEAN, and global markets, panellists will share strategies to shift power structures, close opportunity gaps, and future-proof economies through inclusive leadership.

Because real economic change doesn’t just happen at the top - it happens where resources, representation, and real decisions intersect.

INCLUSIVE ECOSYSTEM THROUGH EQUITY AND SYNERGY

In today’s rapidly evolving economic and social landscape, inclusivity is not merely an aspiration but a necessity for sustainable progress. Building an ecosystem that is truly inclusive requires deliberate commitment to equity, ensuring that opportunities, resources, and support structures are accessible to all, particularly those who have traditionally been underrepresented or underserved. Equally important is the power of synergy, where governments, entrepreneurs, cooperatives, financial institutions, and communities converge to amplify collective strengths and unlock shared value.

This session will explore how inclusive ecosystems can be cultivated through policies and frameworks that champion fairness, innovation, and social mobility, while fostering dynamic partnerships across sectors. It will also examine the role of entrepreneurship and cooperative movements as catalysts in driving shared prosperity, creating resilient networks, and bridging urban-rural divides. By highlighting best practices and actionable strategies, the discussion aims to inspire new models of collaboration that not only generate economic growth but also ensure that such growth is equitable, participatory, and sustainable.

LEGACY WITH PURPOSE: THE NEW HIERARCHY

Family businesses are evolving and so is the definition of legacy. As the global economy faces new challenges and generational shifts, women are stepping into leadership roles not just as successors, but as strategic visionaries reshaping the future of family enterprises.

This dynamic panel explores how women are redefining leadership, governance, and purpose within legacy-driven businesses across ASEAN and beyond. From succession planning and innovation to ESG values and inclusive growth, we’ll examine how women are forging a new hierarchy - one built on resilience, relevance, and long-term impact.

This is not just about continuity. It’s about transformation and leading with purpose in an age of disruption.

EMPOWERMENT – REFORM - PROGRESS

In an era where accountability, equity, and inclusivity define the foundations of good governance, Empowerment – Reform – Progress captures Malaysia’s commitment to advancing institutional integrity and building a justice system that serves all.

This dialogue with The Honourable Dato’ Sri Azalina Othman Said, Minister of Law and Institutional Reform, will explore the evolving landscape of Malaysia’s legal and institutional transformation; from strengthening democratic institutions and upholding the rule of law, to fostering gender equality, access to justice, and citizen empowerment. As Malaysia continues its journey towards a more transparent, responsive, and progressive governance framework, the conversation will examine key reform initiatives that are shaping the nation’s future: the empowerment of women in leadership, youth participation in policymaking, legal literacy, and the integration of digital innovation in public administration.

This session offers a timely and insightful exchange on how inclusive reform and collective empowerment can accelerate progress, not only within Malaysia’s governance ecosystem, but across society at large, ensuring that justice, trust, and progress move in unison toward a more equitable future.

Governance - Inclusivity - Societal Progress

REWRITING THE RULES: DESIGNING WORK THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE

As expectations around work evolve, so must the systems that support it. From flexible policies to inclusive leadership and supportive infrastructure, reimagining the modern workplace requires more than tweaks, it calls for a redesign of the ecosystem itself.

This panel brings together leaders from government, business, and civil society to explore how public policy, organisational culture, and private-sector innovation can intersect to create enabling environments for all workers, especially those historically underserved or overlooked.

Whether it's equitable parental leave, accessible childcare, career re-entry pathways, or inclusive performance metrics, this conversation focuses on scalable strategies that foster participation, productivity, and long-term progress. Because when work works for everyone, economies thrive.

BEYOND THE FINISHING LINE

Sport has long been a proving ground for power, resilience and visibility. But for these women, the race was never just about medals - it was about movement. Beyond the Finishing Line brings together global icons and industry leaders who are rewriting the rules, reclaiming the narrative and owning their space, both on and off the field.

This is not a celebration of having made it, it’s a conversation about changing it. From elite performance to executive leadership, the panellists will explore what it means to build legacy, break through systemic barriers, and use their platforms to open doors for the next generation. Grit meets influence. Victory finds its voice. And the future? It’s inclusive, empowered, and accelerating towards lasting change.