Abstract
Southeast Asia’s traditional export of relatively low-skilled products is facing increased competition. There is therefore a general need to upgrade production in the region, which requires a more skilled and educated labour force. Historically, education has not been emphasized in Southeast Asia but there are indications that this is about to change. This paper starts with a general discussion on the educational situation and changes in the region. It continues with a close look at three ASEAN countries – Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore – with special focus on some of the obstacles for reforms, such as financial and political constraints, that are present in these countries.