A majority of young people in Southeast Asia are confident and optimistic about the future, according to an online survey commissioned by the World Economic Forum and released Friday at an international gathering in Cambodia. The World Economic Forum's Asean Regional Strategy Group, in partnership with Singapore-based internet company Sea Group, surveyed nearly 24,000 young people aged 16-22 for their views on Asean and their prospects. About three-quarters of respondents -- 30% of whom were women and about half have university degrees -- felt their countries are better off as part of Asean. Two-thirds thought Asean membership benefits them personally in terms of improved job prospects, while only 5% thought it will make their lives worse. "These results suggest that the countries of Asean have done a great job building awareness around regional integration," Mr Wood said.

Source: Bangkok Post May 13, 2017 06:00 UTC