ICoCA Deepens Strategic Engagement in Southeast Asia

ICoCA recently embarked on its first trip to Southeast Asia, visiting Thailand, Myanmar, Indonesia and the Philippines. This trip reinforced ICoCA’s growing presence in the region, further solidifying our commitment to promoting responsible security practices across Southeast Asia.

Engaging Regional Leaders in the Security Sector

In Bangkok and Jakarta, ICoCA met with major industry actors, including ABB and Hill & Associates Limited—a risk management consultancy under G4S Risk Consulting. These conversations offered valuable insights into the operational security landscape and working conditions within Southeast Asia’s private security sector. Understanding these regional dynamics is essential to promoting accountability and embedding international standards in local practice.

A key highlight in Jakarta was the meeting with the Security Division of PT Astra International Tbk, one of Indonesia’s largest conglomerates, and its private security provider, PT Sigap Prima Astrea. Discussions centred on aligning Astra’s Security Management System (ASMS) with international best practices. Astra expressed strong interest in deeper collaboration with ICoCA as it pursues national and international recognition. Conversations with Sigap also focused on how local regulation can be harmonised with global standards.

Driving Certification and Accountability

In Myanmar and the Philippines, the focus turned to certification, compliance and recognition. In Manila, ICoCA engaged with Affiliate company Personal Security Systems. In Yangon, meetings with Certified Members EXERA and IDG Security, as well as other security providers, explored practical steps towards certification and overcoming operational challenges.

A productive dialogue with the Myanmar Private Security Services Association focused elevating the recognition of ICoCA certification across the region—strengthening the credibility of certified providers and encouraging more companies to engage with ICoCA’s standards.

This visit marks a key milestone in ICoCA’s global efforts to promote responsible security practices. By deepening our engagement in Southeast Asia, we are paving the way for continued collaboration with local, national and international stakeholders to uphold high standards of accountability, transparency and human rights.