The Oxford University Asia-Pacific Society (OUAPS) was formed in 1999 and is the largest Asian society in Oxford with over 700 members. Its affiliates and networks span across four continents and thousands of interested parties. The society aims to encourage and promote an understanding of current issues related to the Asia-Pacific and to inspire interest in the political, economic, social and cultural developments in this dynamic region of the world. The society envisages to present an all-encompassing society focused on the Asia-Pacific in an international context and a global outlook.

Intellectual stimulation has always been our key motivation. As one of the most ambitious societies in Oxford we have drawn many accomplished individuals from a variety of fields, ranging from the political to the academic. We have had
a long history of hosting a very diverse range of talks, as we recognise the importance of experiencing different viewpoints and perspectives to the developments of the Asia-Pacific today. Recent speakers include Lord Patten, ex-
Governor of Hong Kong; Mr. Donald Tsang, Chief Executive of Hong Kong SAR; Mr. Anwar Ibahim, former deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia; and Mr. Jose Ramos Horta, Nobel Prize Winner. (For a list of past speakers invited by OUAPS, please click here.)

In furtherance of Asian culture and social developments, OUAPS has presented to its members artistes and writers from
all over Asia, representing the Asian societies in different ways. Past notables who have come to Oxford under our invitation include the Hollywood super-star, Jackie Chan; Adeline Yen Mah (author of Falling Leaves); Jung Chang (author of Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China). To this same end, OUAPS organises large scale social and cultural events each term as its climax, to provide an accurate portrayal of societies in Asia.

As the OUAPS steps into its eight anniversary, it does so in confidence and with a concrete belief in its purpose and direction. The society shall continue actively pursuing its aims as it looks onto the first decade of its establishment.

For more information about OUAPS, please browse our website or contact our general secretary at aps@herald.ox.ac.uk. If you are interested in joining the society, visit the membership application section. Alternatively, joining the mailing list will enable you to receive newsletters from us.