FIB discusses SEA history and connectivity

The Department of History, Faculty of Humanities (FIB), Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) held an online guest lecture through Zoom Meeting titled “Connecting between Asia and Southeast Asia” on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. The event featured Assoc Prof Dr Pham Van Thuy from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, as the main speaker. He explained Vietnam’s role in strengthening connectivity between Asia and Southeast Asia.

Prof Pham explained that during the late 19th-century colonial period, Vietnam became part of French Indochina, which was established by the French colonial government. At that time, Vietnam was divided into three main regions: Cochinchina as a direct colony, while Annam and Tonkin held protectorate status. The establishment of French Indochina illustrated how European colonial influence shaped political dynamics in the Vietnamese region.

In his presentation, Prof Pham elaborated on the dynamics of relations between Asia and Southeast Asia, which developed through historical, political, economic, and cultural interactions. Since joining the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1995, Vietnam has strengthened its role in regional cooperation through various political, economic, and diplomatic initiatives.

“Southeast Asia has long been connected with the broader Asian region through trade, cultural exchanges, and political interactions. Vietnam’s participation in ASEAN since 1995 has further strengthened its role in promoting regional cooperation and connectivity,” Prof Pham said.

Prof Pham explained that Southeast Asia had long served as a strategic maritime trade route connecting various major civilizations, including India and China. As a result of these interactions, Southeast Asia shares similar historical, economic, and cultural ties. These connections developed through trade routes, cultural exchanges, and cross-border community interactions. “Maritime trade routes made Southeast Asia a connector between countries. Through these routes, cultural and economic exchanges occurred, shaping regional dynamics that continue to this day,” Prof Pham said.