The shifting global order is subjecting ASEAN to one of its toughest tests in decades, but speakers at a World Economic Forum panel said the turbulence is also creating opportunities the region is well placed to seize.

Even as South-east Asia moves slower than it would like to – and recognises its own challenges – it often gives itself too hard a time and should capitalise on its diversity, neutrality and growing resilience, said the panel of government and business leaders at the forum’s annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, on Jan 22.