In a historic achievement for Malaysian academia, YBrs Dr Vilashini Somiah, a senior lecturer at Universiti Malaya (UM) has been appointed as the next Chair of the Southeast Asia Council (SEAC) under the Association for Asian Studies (AAS) becoming the first Southeast Asian based scholar to lead the council since 1970.
Her term as chair will begin in March 2026, and she will be serving on the council from 2026-2028 In this leadership role, Vilashini will also sit on the AAS Board of Directors, which governs the largest global academic organisation dedicated to the study of Asia.
The AAS described her appointment as a landmark moment, both for Universiti Malaya, and for the border Southeast Asian academic community
“This milestone offers the university greater visibility in the global academic community focused on Asia,” the organization said in a statement.
Vilashini who comes from Sabah has been recognised for her work in gender studies and ethnographic exploration of marginalised communities in Borneo. She is a respected anthropologist with nearly 15 years of research experience, particularly in the areas of migration, and indigeneity in Sabah, Sarawak, and other parts of East Malaysia.
“To be honest, I initially felt apprehensive about living up to the legacy of the previous SEAC chairs. But I’ve come to realise that this role is not just about personal achievement, it represents something greater for the many brilliant scholars in Southeast Asia, particularly those of Southeast Asian descent,” she said.
Vilashini also noted the significance of her appointment for women and academics from minority background who often face additional barriers in academic. She believes that this will build a potential for real change and progress in Malaysian and regional academia as it moves everyone to a more inclusive and confident intellectual culture.
A Rising Profile on the Global Stage
Vilashini’s growing international presence includes prestigious academic fellowships. She was named as ASEAN-Australia Visiting Fellow in 2018, a Visiting Fellow at the London School of Economics Saw Swee Hock Southeast Asia Centre in 2024, and is set to serve as an Associate at Harvard University’s Asia Centre for 2025-2026, a connection that began after her public lecture early this year. Her appointment to SEAC then further affirms her profile of Malaysian scholars in global academia and opens doors for more Southeast Asian voices.
Founded in 1941, the Association for Asian Studies (AAS) has long served as a important platform for scholarly exchange and leadership in the field. It’s board elects representatives from four major regional councils, China and Inner Asia, Northeast Asia, South Asia and Southeast Asia, making Vilashini’s election not only a personal milestones but regional. The appointment is expected to inspire a new generation of academics in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia to take up leadership roles in global institutions.
Sources: FMT, Malay Mail
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