This report shows why Southeast Asian countries need to prioritize core sectors ranging from tourism to digital trade as they hammer out policies to boost post-COVID-19 recovery and secure a greener future. The first in a four-part series, the report looks at the pandemic's impact on Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, and the Philippines relative to the need for multistakeholder taskforces that can help core industries recover and grow. It shows why policymakers need a sector-based approach and highlights strong medium-term opportunities. The report underscores how deepening regional cooperation can help countries recover from the pandemic and build more resilient economies and societies.