This introductory chapter examines the complexities surrounding the concept of “development” and its entanglement with power dynamics, colonial legacies, and capitalist imperatives. From Truman’s 1949 address to the emergence of the era of development amidst colonialism, the discourse on development has been fraught with challenges. The chapter highlights how mainstream paradigms, exemplified by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)’s initiatives, often prioritize corporate interests over community well-being. Critiques of ASEAN’s model underscore the need for alternative approaches rooted in principles of equality, solidarity, and sustainability. Various alternative visions, from grassroots initiatives to civil society movements, challenge neoliberal capitalism and advocate for a pluriversal approach that embraces diverse ways of being and knowing. By foregrounding marginalized voices, these alternatives offer pathways toward a more inclusive future. The chapter sets the stage for exploring decolonial alternatives in Southeast Asia beyond the geographical, political, and socio-economic scope imposed by ASEAN.