The governance and leadership structure guiding AERI's research mission and strategic direction.
AERI operates under a Board of Directors, Academic Committee, Economic Development Committee, International Cooperation Committee, Evaluation and Certification Center, and Public Relations Department.
As the Institute's decision-making body, the Board of Directors provides guidance on relevant operational matters. It comprises one Chairperson and one Secretary-General. Board members are drawn from government representatives of various countries, partner organization representatives, prominent public figures, and entrepreneurs. Each term is three years, with the total number of members not exceeding twenty.
The Academic Committee serves as the Institute's academic advisory body, responsible for reviewing major academic activities and research topics. It is composed of international experts and scholars in relevant fields, encompassing government department experts, renowned domestic and international scholars, entrepreneurs, and experts from international organizations. It designates one to two Chief Experts and several Committee Members (not exceeding forty), each serving a three-year term.
The Director exercises the following powers:
Deputy Directors and Director's Assistants assist the Director in daily operations, organizing the implementation of plans, and proposing annual work plans and reports. They may also nominate the appointment or dismissal of staff members.
The publication of major research outcomes by the Institute requires the approval of at least two-thirds of the Expert Committee members.
Experienced professionals guiding AERI's research and cooperation across Asia.
The following list represents members who have authorized public disclosure of their affiliations. AERI's full governance structure includes additional distinguished scholars, advisors, and committee members across the Asia-Pacific region.
A seasoned expert in Southeast Asian economic policy and cross-border investment, Chen Chao oversees AERI's research operations and international cooperation initiatives. He has led multiple high-level delegations to ASEAN nations, forging strategic partnerships with government agencies, industry chambers, and academic institutions. In 2026, he spearheaded the establishment of the AERI Sarawak Research Branch, marking the Institute's strategic expansion into the ASEAN heartland.
A distinguished leader in Malaysia's Chinese business community, Dato' Loh Sua Yaw brings decades of experience in government relations, cross-border trade, and regional economic development. He serves as a vital bridge between AERI and Southeast Asian governmental and business circles, having played an instrumental role in facilitating the Institute's engagement with the Sarawak state government and major industry stakeholders in smart city development and healthcare investment.
Henry H. L. Law serves as Assistant Director, overseeing external relations, institutional communications, and strategic partnerships. With a background in international business and regional economic analysis, he manages AERI's public engagement and media relations across the Asia-Pacific. He represented the Institute at the launch of the "Malaysia Cultural Tourism Integration and Festival Economy Development Special Research Report" in May 2026.
Wang Ruihan leads market research and trade facilitation initiatives within AERI's Economic and Trade Committee, specializing in ASEAN market entry strategy and sector-specific investment analysis. His recent work focuses on the Miri region's emerging F&B sector and East Malaysia's evolving investment landscape, providing on-the-ground intelligence for enterprises exploring opportunities in Sarawak.