Ms. Irena is responsible for the facilitation and coordination of ASEAN sectoral cooperation in the areas of labour, migrant workers, and civil service matters. Previously her portfolios covered gender and women empowerment, poverty eradication and rural development, social protection and welfare of persons with disabilities, older persons, children, as well as education and youth. She was involved in the development of numerous ASEAN Declarations, ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint, Work Plans of ASEAN Sectoral Bodies, and other key documents. She has also facilitated partnerships and coordination with ASEAN Dialogue Partners, civil society, employers’ organisations, trade unions, and other external parties for many years.