Latest news with #ASEANSocio-CulturalCommunity
Barnama
4 days ago
- Business
- Barnama
ASEAN Socio-cultural Plan To Uplift 680 Million People Through Inclusive, Resilient Community-building
KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 (Bernama) -- ASEAN has charted a bold socio-cultural agenda to uplift the lives of over 680 million people across the region by 2045, aiming to forge a resilient, inclusive and people-centred community in the face of growing global uncertainties. The plan builds on the foundation laid by the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Blueprint 2025 and responds to emerging challenges such as ageing populations, digital exclusion, public health threats, climate change and widening social inequality. 'It also recognises the opportunities arising form emerging megatrends such as digital technology advancement and green and blue economies,' according to the ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future document. Among the key goals of the ASCC plan is to build a people-centred and interconnected community through equitable digital access, greater regional mobility, and enhanced cooperation in education, lifelong learning and social protection. The strategy also envisions a caring and inclusive ASEAN that promotes shared prosperity by investing in gender equality, women's empowerment, and stronger protections for migrant workers, persons with disabilities, and the elderly. Human security and resilience feature prominently, with ASEAN pledging to address mental health, ageing, and natural disasters through partnerships between governments, civil society and the private sector. 'Youth engagement is a high priority. The plan outlines measures to equip young people to lead in innovation, climate action and entrepreneurship, while promoting active participation in ASEAN's socio-economic development. 'Women's empowerment is another central focus. ASEAN seeks to increase female representation in decision-making, develop gender-responsive policies, and invest in care infrastructure to reduce unpaid work and improve well-being,' the document read. The ASCC Plan also highlights the importance of preserving ASEAN's rich cultural heritage. It seeks to strengthen regional identity through arts, education, digital platforms and community-based initiatives, particularly in underserved areas.
Barnama
24-04-2025
- Business
- Barnama
Sarawak Supports ASEAN's 2025 Goals Amid Global Economic Challenges
Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah delivers his speech at the Dinner held in conjunction with the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building tonight. --fotoBERNAMA (2024) COPYRIGHT RESERVED KUCHING, April 24 (Bernama) -- Amid global economic challenges, Sarawak is reinforcing its commitment to ASEAN's core values, calling for stronger regional cooperation built on sustainability and inclusivity. Its Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said Sarawak has positioned itself as a committed regional partner, echoing ASEAN's 2025 theme of 'Inclusivity and Sustainability' as a blueprint for resilience. 'We are on the same wavelength as ASEAN, and actively contribute to the region, proving that environmental stewardship and social unity can go hand in hand. 'During this global trade tension period,we must continue to forge forward hand-in-hand to ensure shared prosperity whilst promoting sustainability,' he said. Abdul Karim said this in his speech at the state gala dinner for the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting, here, tonight. He emphasised that Sarawak's approach, which is rooted in green economy initiatives, commitment to indigenous rights, and inclusive development strategies, serves not just local communities but the region at large. Meanwhile, Abdul Karim said ASEAN countries contributed the highest number of visitor arrivals to Sarawak, with a total of 2.6 million visitors or more than 55 per cent recorded in 2024. 'As of March this year, Sarawak recorded 581,775 visitor arrivals from ASEAN countries, with Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia constituting the largest portions, 67 per cent and 28 per cent respectively,' he said. Also present at the gala dinner were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing and ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn.
Barnama
24-04-2025
- Business
- Barnama
ASEAN's Arts And Cultural Heritage Offers Immense Potential, Says Tiong
KUCHING, April 24 (Bernama) -- The rich arts and cultural heritage of ASEAN countries offer immense potential for further growth, said Malaysia's Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. He said in recent years, ASEAN has not only advanced economically but also witnessed a growing recognition of its arts and cultural heritage. This unique heritage has emerged as one of the most promising avenues for driving inclusive growth, creating jobs, empowering local communities, and preserving the grouping's rich traditions, he noted. 'From ancient crafts to contemporary art, from indigenous festivals to culinary legacies — our cultural assets are living expressions of our identity and shared history,' he said in his speech during the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting opening ceremony here, today. Tiong said by strengthening cross border collaborations, curating immersive arts and cultural experiences and integrating storytelling into tourism strategies, ASEAN can offer the world something truly unique. 'Together, let us champion a tourism model that not only attracts visitors but also uplifts the soul of our nations and sustains our arts and cultural legacies for generations to come. 'Our journey ahead requires renewed commitment and cooperation as we continue to face global challenges under our pillar, which includes public health crises, climate change, sudden shifts in international affairs and economic disparities and social welfare,' he said. The ongoing ASCC Council Meeting is a biannual ministerial-level gathering focused on addressing key socio-cultural issues across the ASEAN region. This year's meeting, from April 22 to 26, welcomed representatives from the ASEAN fraternity, namely Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste.
The Sun
23-04-2025
- The Sun
Sarawak shines as model of unity in diversity for ASEAN
KUCHING: Sarawak continues to shine as a leading example of unity in diversity for ASEAN, reflecting the very essence of a harmonious and culturally rich Malaysia, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. He said the Iban philosophy of 'Segulai Sejalai' meaning 'together in unity' is not merely a slogan but a way of life for Sarawakians, who embody multicultural harmony through their daily practices. 'In Sarawak, this spirit is not just a slogan, but it lives in our community, be it Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Gawai, Deepavali or Christmas, in our multi-religious celebrations that see communities come together as one, no matter their background,' he said at the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting welcoming dinner here tonight. Tiong also pointed out that Kuching's recognition as Malaysia's first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy is a global acknowledgment of the state's rich culinary heritage, deeply rooted in its multicultural society. 'Tonight, we have carefully selected and prepared a menu for you, featuring a variety of local dishes such as Laksa Sarawak, Mee Kolok, Kampua, Umai and Ayam Pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo), served at the different food stalls here,' he said. Tiong further highlighted that Sarawak is known for its diverse cultures and 34 ethnic groups, making it a unique and rich destination for discovery. 'From the traditional tattoos of the Iban warriors to the intricate beadwork of the Orang Ulu, each culture tells its own story without words. Every ethnic group contributes to a vibrant, sacred and living cultural ecosystem,' he added. The ASCC Council Meeting, which is taking place from April 22 to 26 in Kuching, is a scheduled ministerial-level meeting organised twice a year to discuss key socio-cultural issues in the ASEAN region. It is attended by representatives from 11 ASEAN countries, namely Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste.
Barnama
23-04-2025
- Politics
- Barnama
Sarawak Shines As Model Of Unity In Diversity For ASEAN
KUCHING, April 23 (Bernama) -- Sarawak continues to shine as a leading example of unity in diversity for ASEAN, reflecting the very essence of a harmonious and culturally rich Malaysia, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. He said the Iban philosophy of 'Segulai Sejalai' meaning 'together in unity' is not merely a slogan but a way of life for Sarawakians, who embody multicultural harmony through their daily practices. 'In Sarawak, this spirit is not just a slogan, but it lives in our community, be it Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Gawai, Deepavali or Christmas, in our multi-religious celebrations that see communities come together as one, no matter their background,' he said at the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting welcoming dinner here tonight.
