Generations Together: Bridging Gaps, Challenging Stereotypes
ASEAN-BAC Malaysia was proud to co-host “Generations Together: Bridging Gaps, Challenging Stereotypes” with Khazanah Nasional Berhad at the Asia School of Business. This key engagement under our ASEAN Inclusivity Collective (AIC) focused on creating a more inclusive workforce for all across ASEAN.
The session began with opening remarks from Jukhee Hong, Executive Director, ASEAN-BAC Malaysia & Chair of the AIC, followed by a session setting by Narita Naziree, Head, Group People Experience & Digital Advancement, Group Human Capital, Maybank.
A huge thank you to our moderator, Nurlin Mohd Salleh (BCG Malaysia), and our insightful panellists:
► Nick Khaw (KNB)
► Premraj Janardanan (KWAP)
► Khairil Khairuddin (SD Guthrie Berhad)
Key Insights from the Discussion:
► Shifting Demographics: With Millennials and Gen Z making up over 70-75% of the workforce, organisations must adapt to ensure sustainable livelihoods.
► Stereotypes vs. Strengths: While generational stereotypes exist (e.g., rigid older generations, lack of resilience in younger cohorts), panellists agreed that differences are strengths that contribute to a more diverse and dynamic organisation.
► Addressing Gaps: Organisations must focus on transparent communication and implementing strategies like role reversal mentoring to bridge understanding across generations.
► People-Centric Leadership: The consensus highlighted the need for leadership that listens, engages, and leads with heart to manage and communicate effectively across all age groups.
We were also pleased to have Datuk Yvonne Chia join the session. She emphasised that leadership across generations requires openness, curiosity, humility, and connection and shared personal experiences of learning from younger colleagues by listening, engaging, and participating in their activities.
We look forward to leveraging these insights as we continue to champion the AIC’s mission and encourage companies across ASEAN to adopt key inclusivity practices by 2030.
