The IEEE R10 Section and Chapter Symposium (SCS 2025) for the South Asia Pacific region was held on 29 October 2025 at the Sabah International Convention Centre in Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, in conjunction with IEEE TENCON 2025. The event brought together 35 IEEE volunteers, including Section leaders, Chapter Chairs, and Young Professionals from across the Asia Pacific region.
The symposium served as a leadership development platform aimed at strengthening chapter operations, enhancing membership engagement, and preparing volunteers for the upcoming transition from IEEE Region 10 to Region 11. The program combined leadership training, governance discussions, best-practice sharing, and opportunities for cross-regional collaboration.
The day commenced with Registration and Refreshments, allowing participants to connect informally before the program. This was followed by a Team Building Activity, designed to foster collaboration, communication, and trust among volunteers from diverse regions.
The formal program began with Opening Remarks and an overview of the New Region 11 by Prof. Takako Hashimoto, IEEE R10 Director, who outlined the strategic vision, governance changes, and future opportunities arising from the regional transition.
Prof. Supavadee Aramvith then delivered a session on Membership Development Best Practices, sharing proven strategies to attract, engage, and retain IEEE members at the section and chapter levels.
Prof. Jennifer Dela Cruz presented on the Role of the R10 Section and Chapter Committee (SCC), clarifying its responsibilities in supporting sections and chapters, enabling leadership development, and driving regional initiatives. This was followed by Dr. Bernard Lim’s session on the Role of the South Asia Council, highlighting coordination mechanisms, regional representation, and collaborative opportunities within South Asia.
A Section Best Practice Sharing segment featured award-winning sections, who shared successful initiatives, operational models, and lessons learned that can be replicated across other regions. Participants then engaged in a Networking Lunch, providing valuable time for peer-to-peer discussions and relationship building.
The afternoon sessions began with Intensifying the New R11 by Deepak Mathur, focusing on strengthening engagement, leadership continuity, and strategic alignment under the new regional structure. Prof. Lance Fung followed with a session on Ethical Behaviours for IEEE Volunteers, emphasizing integrity, accountability, and ethical decision-making in volunteer leadership roles.
A Panel Discussion on Leadership Perspectives, featuring past and future IEEE R10 Directors, provided insights into leadership journeys, challenges, and practical advice for current and aspiring IEEE leaders. The symposium concluded with Closing Remarks and a Group Photo, followed by refreshments and informal networking.
Participants represented Malaysia, India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Australia, the Philippines, and neighbouring regions. The strong participation of Young Professionals highlighted their growing interest in contributing to IEEE leadership and governance.
Key outcomes of SCS 2025 included a clearer understanding of the Region 11 governance structure, shared strategies for chapter revitalization, strengthened commitments to cross-border collaboration, and positive feedback supporting more frequent in-person leadership development programs.
IEEE R10 extends its sincere appreciation to all speakers, volunteers, and partners who contributed to the successful delivery of the IEEE R10 Section and Chapter Symposium 2025.