November 14, 2024 · Hybrid Event
(Photos from IFLA APR members)
The International Federation of Landscape Architects Asia-Pacific Region (IFLA-APR) held its Annual General Meeting on November 14, 2024, as a hybrid event in Singapore. Delegates from across Asia-Pacific joined both in person and online, creating a highly collaborative atmosphere.
Participants included national association representatives, IFLA-APR Executive Committee members, and observers. Bruno Marques, President of IFLA World, opened the AGM with a recorded welcome, emphasizing the value of regional-global linkages.
Key Discussions
Strategic governance and collaboration dominated the agenda. IFLA-APR President Chris Tidswell opened with a progress report, highlighting the official incorporation of IFLA-APR as a legal entity in Singapore – a milestone that enhances the federation’s organizational stability and compliance. He also briefed delegates on two recent constitutional updates (adopted at the World Council in Istanbul) and relayed how IFLA-APR contributed feedback to IFLA World’s governance working group during global roundtable talks. These discussions reflected a forward-looking, strategic approach to governance. The President’s report further showcased collaborative initiatives: a new online jobs board (now live to support regional practitioners) and the growing Young Landscape Architects Alliance (YLAA) network of 339 members, underscoring efforts to engage young professionals. Delegates exchanged ideas on these programs and on future events, demonstrating the meeting’s interactive, solution-oriented spirit.
Decisions & Outcomes
The AGM resulted in several important outcomes. Members approved the prior minutes and annual reports after brief discussion. Elections were held for 2024–2026 committee positions: Wen-Shan Huang was re-elected Chair of Education & Academic Affairs, Pamela Sarunya J. Pagana was re-elected as Professional Practice & Policy Chair, and Matt Shihjen Chu was confirmed (unopposed) as Treasurer.
The council also endorsed an Operations Plan to strengthen internal processes and documentation, aligning the federation’s daily operations with its strategic objectives. Additionally, the IFLA-APR budget for 2025 was reviewed and approved, ensuring funding for key initiatives and events.
(Photos from IFLA APR members)
(Photos from IFLA APR members)
Collaborative & Strategic Spirit
Throughout the meeting, a strong collaborative ethos prevailed. Delegates actively shared updates and coordinated on upcoming activities – for example, planning for the next IFLA-APR Congress in 2025 (Mumbai, India) and other future congresses was discussed in partnership with host representatives.
The AGM also acknowledged the successful AAPME Awards 2024 (with a gala scheduled the following evening) as a collective achievement, and noted the formation of new partnerships (such as an MoU with the Indian Society for Landscape Architects) to support the 2025 Congress. This cooperative dialogue, coupled with strategic decisions like incorporation and constitutional refinement, reflects an AGM that was both highly collaborative and firmly focused on long-term strategy.
In Summary
In summary, the 2024 IFLA-APR AGM in Singapore reinforced regional unity and vision – key discussions and decisions from incorporation to elections set a clear direction for the organization’s growth, while the engaged participation of its members underscored a shared commitment to advancing landscape architecture across Asia-Pacific.