LBQ Hero
Recipient
Kwee Vien Tanjung
Indonesia
I am the Co-Founder of the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus and currently serve on the Steering Committee. As a passionate advocacy specialist, I embrace my role as a full-time dreamer and poet, coloring the world with my creativity in a box of crayons.
Brief information about your work
My advocacy career commenced in 2010 within the Economic Justice movement at Aliansi Petani Indonesia (Indonesian Peasant Alliance). There, I played a pivotal role in winning a Judicial Review of the Indonesian Seed Distribution Law. In 2011, at the ASEAN People’s Forum in Jakarta, I successfully organized the inaugural SOGIE Regional meeting, which laid the groundwork for the formation of the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus and initiated intersectional work in this domain.
I possess core competencies in program management, public policy, advocacy, and digital marketing, which I have cultivated through my previous positions at Momentum USAID and Save the Children Indonesia. In these roles, I contributed to several initiatives aimed at influencing national and sub-national policies and facilitating discussions on critical issues, including maternal and neonatal health, education, and disaster management.
Moreover, I effectively applied my digital marketing skills and certification to enhance the visibility and impact of the projects and events for which I was responsible. I am driven by a commitment to effecting positive social change and empowering individuals and organizations to achieve their objectives.
What one achievement you’ve accomplished that you’re most proud of? Why?
I successfully established the ASEAN SOGIE Caucus, a significant platform dedicated to advocating for the rights and recognition of sexual orientation and gender identity minorities in Southeast Asia. This initiative embodies both intersectional advocacy and soft advocacy strategies, which are crucial for fostering understanding and acceptance within the region. Among our notable projects is the South East Asia Queer Cultural Festival, an event designed to celebrate diverse queer identities and promote cultural exchange.
In my advocacy role, I take responsibility for the comprehensive development of all educational and promotional materials for ASC Advocacy Training. This includes crafting training modules, informational pamphlets, and interactive resources aimed at equipping participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively engage in advocacy efforts. Through these initiatives, I strive to enhance awareness and support for SOGIE issues across various communities.
What do you find most challenging about your work? Why?
Our work covers ten countries in the ASEAN region, including East Timor. Each country presents its own unique set of challenges due to the diverse cultural backgrounds and varying political situations. For instance, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei have distinct social dynamics and governance structures compared to Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, which may have different historical contexts and issues.
Given this complexity, we employ a “bottom-up” advocacy approach. This strategy emphasizes understanding and prioritizing the needs and perspectives of local communities. By engaging directly with individuals and groups on the ground, we aim to ensure that our work in the ASEAN region truly reflects the realities and aspirations of those we serve, ultimately leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes in our ASC initiatives.
What do you do to recharge your battery?
Embracing the soothing rain, I read a captivating book, indulged in a thrilling detective movie, and found warmth and comfort in cuddling with my cats.
What is your vulnerability and how do you overcome it?
I recognize that my vulnerability is rejection, especially as an introvert. Being in crowded places can be overwhelming and can drain my energy. To help manage this, I find it beneficial to retreat to a quiet space where I can take a moment for myself. I often hug myself and play a game on my phone for a few minutes, allowing me to recharge and regain my composure. This practice helps me feel more grounded and ready to face the world again.
You have been nominated for the LBQ Hero category. What was your reaction and please, tell us why?
It’s a priviledge and a great blessing for me to work with all SOGIE activist for the last 15 years. Im humble and so excited of this recognization.
What is a warm/hopeful message that you would like to share with the communities in the Asia Pacific?
Always be a dreamer. Share your dreams and collaborate with fellow dreamers, because somewhere over the rainbow, dreams do come true.
