Embracing change through a new country, culture and season

September is ESEA Heritage Month, with the aim to celebrate and honour people of ESEA (East and Southeast Asian) heritage and their culture, history and everything in between.

As part of this month, we are thrilled to have ING Media's Haziq Ariffin, share his reflections on this year's theme: Changing Seasons.

“A reflection on the cyclical nature of life. Just as the seasons transition, so too do our experiences, cultures and identities within the ESEA communities and beyond. From the tangible shifts in weather to the evolving cultural zeitgeist, this theme encapsulates our collective journey towards new beginnings and growth.”

Enjoying the Singapore National Day Parade, August 2024.

Haziq Ariffin

As I find myself at a unique crossroads, it feels like the theme for this year’s ESEA Heritage Month, “Changing Seasons”, couldn’t be more apt.

This time last year, I wrote about Roots and Routes, reflecting on a short trip back to Southeast Asia. Now, I write this from my new home in Singapore, having relocated after seven years in the UK. Personally, I’m really excited to be expanding ING Media's international presense, particularly in Asia.

Finding meaning in seasons

Whilst readjusting to Southeast Asia, I’ve quickly learnt that “Changing Seasons” could be a misnomer here, where the climate is seemingly unchanging — it is either hot or rainy, but it is always humid. The absence of four distinct seasons means you can’t rely on the number of coats and umbrellas on the streets to determine which part of the year you’re in. Instead, you look out for seasonal fruits and moments in the calendar.

Haziq Ariffin, Singapore. 

Celebrating our shared identity

September, in particular, has been a great month for reflections on identity and community as August marks the National Days for both Malaysia and Singapore. National Days are significant events that commemorate our past whilst being hopeful about the future. Particularly for those of Southeast Asian heritage. It is a day celebrating national pride, identity and belonging and as a massively diverse region, it is an opportunity to reflect on our shared histories and connection across cultures – a journey that never ceases.

Feeling conflicted

At the same time, August this year was a particularly difficult time with one of the worst periods of unrest the UK has seen in recent decades. From afar, I felt the tangible fear and anxiety, particularly amongst the ESEA community, following the nationwide riots that were fuelled by misinformation and anti-immigration sentiment. No doubt, an experience like that forces you to reexamine your identity and community and its position in the zeitgeist.

Change is progress

However, “Changing Seasons” is also a reminder that we should embrace change with fervour and courage. You don’t have to look far. Priya’s decision to rebrand PREACH Inclusion (from BAME in Property) this year is a powerful example. I presume that it was a daunting prospect to have to negotiate and a formidable task to undertake but I’m certain that it’s a welcome change. From a communications perspective, it speaks volumes to Priya, her brand, and what it stands for.

Embracing change

Change can be intimidating, but it can also be a door to new opportunities and growth. As ING celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, we are actively reflecting on our journey and looking forward to the next 25 years. In the words of Damian Wild, ING’s Managing Director, “ING is embracing these changes with purpose.”

A global perspective

I’m proud to be a part of ING’s international story - bringing our expertise in strategic communications to connect businesses across the globe. Whether that means supporting companies based in Asia Pacific looking to expand internationally or helping raise the profile of businesses from around the world in the Singapore market, our mission is to serve as a bridge that facilitates meaningful connections.

This journey has already proven to be an incredibly fun challenge. Attending various events and engaging with business leaders as well as members of the media, I’ve realised the nuances in ways of working and learned to make micro-adjustments in how we communicate to suit specific cultural contexts.

As we celebrate East and Southeast Asian Heritage month, I hope we continue to celebrate our rich and colourful cultural heritage and commit to learning from each other with humility.

A visit to the Impact Lab at the Surbana Jurong campus with SAA Architects.