Abstract:
The objectives of this study are to 1) explore ASEAN identity, 2) analyze the ASEAN identity promotion and its factors and conditions and 3) to propose guidelines for promoting the ASEAN identity for the integration of the ASEAN community. Documentary research and focus group discussion were used to explore ASEAN identity. An in-depth interview was taken by 5 experts in relation field to seek for ASEAN identity promotion guideline for Thai youths then Delphi technique and focus group discussion were used for group consensus on ASEAN identity promotion. The findings are as follows: ASEAN identities from ASEAN expectation and youth perception are 1) peace and harmony 2) stability and solidarity 3) unity 4) cooperation on the basis of mutual benefit 5) interdependence 6) people-centered development 7) mutual respect 8) ASEAN organization 9) resilience 10) an awareness on art and culture heritage perseverance 11) collaboration 12) Southeast Asia realm 13) ASEAN flag 14) ASEAN anthem 15) the emblem of bound stalks of rice and 16) mutual understanding. Each ASEAN identity reflects through four signifiers which are traditions, culture, rules and systems that implies sense of belonging, we feeling, awareness and mutual understanding. An analysis of ASEAN promotion and its factors and conditions indicated that ASEAN identity promotion must emphasize on the nine characteristics of Thai youth inn identity process which are; first stage, Identity formation is to promote self-knowledge, effective communication skills, ASEAN knowledge and critical thinking, second stage, Identity construction is to promote synchronize and connection of information skill and collaborative working, and third stage, Identity negotiation is to promote sense of empathy and understand others, dealing with conflict positively, and effective analysis and evaluation. ASEAN identity promotion factors and conditions are 1) internal factors which are (1) government roles (2) private sectors and organization (3) people who are in concerned (4) family and (5) society and 2) external factors which are (1) international organization and private sectors (2) government (3) educational institution (4) Administrators (5) volunteers who has ASEAN background. The findings on the guidelines for promoting ASEAN identities for the integration of ASEAN community are 30 items to promote 9 characteristics that can reflect ASEAN identities. Eleven prioritize guidelines are 1) using English as a medium of instruction 2) learning through practicing 3) learning diverse cultures 4) learning in a real life setting 5) off-campus learning 6) internship learning 7) instill of sense and attitude 8) working in team among people from different background 9) education for social development and 10) an excursion to ASEAN member states and 11) applicatory learning.