Latest news with #AseanDay
The Star
an hour ago
- Business
- The Star
New cultural hub opens in Seoul to strengthen ties between South Korea and Asean
Visitors view displays at the inaugural exhibition, 'Fruity Fruit: Colourful Days in South-East Asia,' held at the Korea Press Centre on Friday. - Asean-Korea Centre via The Korea Herald/ANN SEOUL: The Asean-Korea Centre has officially opened the Seoul Asean Hall, a new cultural hub for Asean-Korea exchange, on Friday (Aug 8), with an inaugural exhibition titled 'Fruity Fruit: Colourful Days in South-East Asia.' The opening coincides with Asean Day, marking the 58th anniversary of Asean. Located on the first floor of the Korea Press Centre, the Seoul Asean Hall is designed as a multipurpose exhibition venue. It aims to highlight cooperation across culture, tourism and economy between South Korea and the Asean member states. Since 2009, the Asean-Korea Centre has maintained a small information corner on the eighth floor. The newly relocated and expanded space on the more accessible first floor signals a push to increase public visibility and greater access for all, said the Asean-Korea Centre Secretary-General Kim Jae-shin during the opening remarks. 'The Seoul Asean Hall is an open space designed to introduce the rich cultures of the Asean region to the South Korean public and to foster future-oriented cooperation based on mutual understanding," said Kim. According to the Asean-Korea Centre, all 10 Asean member states took part in planning and executing the exhibitions and programmes. 'I hope this space will serve as a key platform for Asean-Korea collaboration,' said Kim. 'Through visits to the Seoul Asean Hall, I also hope the Korean public will engage more closely with South-East Asia's rich cultural resources and deepen their understanding of the region.' The Seoul Asean Hall is divided into a permanent exhibition area showcasing cultural and tourism assets from the Asean countries and a special zone dedicated to thematic exhibits. Running through Feb. 13, 'Fruity Fruit: Colourful Days in South-East Asia' offers a sensory exploration of daily life in Southeast Asia and the region's heritage through the motif of tropical fruit. Once viewed as exotic and rare, South-East Asian fruits have become commonplace in South Korea, reflecting the growing trade and cultural exchange between the regions. The exhibition uses fruit as a metaphor for bridging tradition and modernity, locality and universality, through artworks, crafts, lifestyle items and digital media sourced from across Asean, according to the Asean-Korea Centre. Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ambassadors and other representatives from Asean member states and leading figures from the cultural and business sectors attended the opening ceremony. The Asean-Korea Centre also operates Jeju Asean Hall at the Jeju International Peace Centre, which opened in 2022. - The Korea Herald/ANN
The Star
5 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
South Asian nations mark Asean anniversary, laud exemplary regional cooperation
Asean Day is celebrated every year on Aug 8 to commemorate the founding of Asean in 1967. - Bernama NEW DELHI: South Asian nations extended their greetings to Asean in conjunction with the regional bloc's 58th anniversary on Friday (Aug 8). Pakistan has described Asean as a "shining example" of regional cooperation and Islamabad seeks to deepen its relations with the group for a stronger and more connected Asia Pacific region. Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in congratulating Asean and its member states on social media platform X on Friday said: "Asean stands as a shining example of regional cooperation, dialogue and shared prosperity. Its journey over the decades has inspired hope for a peaceful and inclusive international order." Pakistan has been a sectoral dialogue partner of the 10-member organisation since 1993. India's External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, who greeted Asean on the group's 58th anniversary, reaffirmed the country's commitment to further strengthen its partnership with Asean. "As major demographies with strong economic, civilisational and people-to-people connects, India and Asean have common aspirations and a shared vision for progress and prosperity," the minister said on X. Meanwhile, a number of events were organised in Asian capitals to mark the Asean anniversary. The High Commission of Malaysia in Sri Lanka hosted a dinner with the Asean heads of mission to celebrate the occasion in Colombo on Friday. Sri Lanka's Deputy Foreign Minister Arun Hemachandra joined it as the guest of honour. The Asean Dhaka Committee, comprising the Asean heads of mission in Bangladesh, held a celebration on Thursday. Bangladesh's Culture Ministry Advisor Mustafa Sarwar Farooki was the chief guest at the event held at the Royal Thai Embassy. Malaysian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Mohd Shuhada Othman in his remarks highlighted the Kuala Lumpur Declaration, Asean Community Vision 2045 and promoted the upcoming 47th Asean Summit. The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad organised a discussion titled "Pakistan and Asean: Partners in Peace, Progress, and Regional Prosperity" in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Asean Committee in Islamabad on Thursday. Asean was formed on Aug 8, 1967 and consists of 10 members - Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. - Bernama
The Star
20 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Asean marks 58 years of unity, draws praise from global partners
KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama): World leaders and foreign envoys took to social media on Thursday to convey their well wishes to Asean on its 58th anniversary, underscoring the bloc's enduring role in promoting regional peace, prosperity and cooperation. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon described ASEAN as a "key partner' and celebrated the deepening ties between New Zealand and Southeast Asia, especially as both sides mark 50 years of diplomatic partnership this year. "The Association of South-East Asian Nations is 58 years old, and there's something that New Zealand wants to acknowledge and to celebrate,' he said in a LinkedIn post. Luxon noted that Asean is now New Zealand's fourth-largest trading partner, with strong people-to-people ties, including nearly 10,000 students from Southeast Asia currently studying in New Zealand. "Our relationship is delivering economic growth at both ends… and to all Asean friends, here's to 50 years of friendship and many, many more to come. Happy Asean Day to you,' he added. Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong also joined in the regional celebration, stating on X, "Today, we celebrate Asean's achievements in promoting regional peace, stability, and shared prosperity. "Australia is a partner South-East Asia can count on,' she said, reaffirming Canberra's longstanding commitment to the region. Australia's High Commissioner to Malaysia, Danielle Heinecke, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Australia's status as Asean's longest-standing dialogue partner since 1974. "We continue to work closely with Malaysia to advance its goals as Asean Chair, and remain committed to deepening our partnership grounded in Asean centrality,' she said in her X post tagging the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and regional missions. Framed by the iconic Kuala Lumpur skyline in the background, including the Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC), Australia's Ambassador to Asean, Tiffany McDonald delivered her Asean Day message, thanking envoys across the region for showcasing the depth of ties between Australia and Asean. "Our relationship is more active and more important than ever. As Asean's first dialogue partner and a comprehensive strategic partner, we are proud to work with Asean as it implements its vision of a resilient, innovative, dynamic and people-centred community,' she said. Australia, Aseans first Dialogue Partner and one of its Comprehensive Strategic Partners, is also celebrating 70 years of diplomatic presence in Malaysia. Japan's Ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata, also posted his message on X, saying Japan "reaffirms its commitment to working closely with Asean as a trusted partner for decades to come.' "We commend Malaysia's leadership as Chair and will continue to strongly support Asean,' he said. Meanwhile, Canadian High Commissioner to Malaysia, Jodi Robinson, who attended the Asean Day celebration in Cyberjaya today, also offered her congratulations to the regional bloc. In a LinkedIn post with event photos, she wrote, "Happy Asean Day. Prime Minister Anwar's address focused on the need for Asean countries to push forward, to move beyond securing centrality and ensure Asean remains durable and strong with enhanced intra-economic relations.' The United States (US) also reaffirmed its commitment to Asean, with the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur posting on X that Washington remains a "durable and reliable partner' of the regional bloc. "The US continues to be a key contributor to economic growth in the region through far-reaching US-Asean commercial and trade ties, which support hundreds of thousands of jobs across the United States and Asean,' it said, noting that the US remains the top source of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Asean. The Chairman of Myanmar's State Administration Council, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, in his Asean Day message published by The Global New Light of Myanmar, extended his wishes for sustained peace and prosperity among Asean nations. "I wish all our peoples across the Asean Member States continued success, peace and prosperity in the years ahead. May the enduring spirit of Asean continue to live collectively in the hearts of our peoples,' he said. Meanwhile, Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu, through Voice of Vietnam, highlighted the core values that continue to define the Asean spirit. "Cooperation strengthens us, dialogue connects us, innovation drives us, and resilience defines us. But above all, solidarity remains Asean's most outstanding trait,' he said in conjunction with the regional bloc's 58th anniversary. Asean, established on Aug 8, 1967, comprises 10 member states, namely Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Malaysia took over the role of Asean Chair on January 1 this year from Laos. This year is Malaysia's fifth ASEAN Chairmanship, having assumed the role in 1977, 1997, 2005 and 2015. - Bernama
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Borneo Post
AirAsia celebrates Asean diversity with RM69 fares
KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 6): As the world celebrates Asean Day, AirAsia is inviting everyone to explore this rich diversity and discover the wonders of Southeast Asia like never before. The Asean region has a vibrant tapestry of cultures, cuisines, traditions, and breathtaking landscapes that captivate millions of travellers every year. With all-in one-way fares from as low as RM69, spontaneous adventures are just a booking away. AirAsia has long been the champion of Asean connectivity, bridging communities and cultures across borders. This year, the airline is taking its role as a regional connector to the next level with exciting new routes, unbeatable promotions, and a collaboration that captures the youthful energy of the region. The airline's latest expansion into Indonesia includes new routes to Palembang, Semarang, and Pontianak and Banjarmasin, adding 22 more weekly flights and increasing its total to an impressive 227 flights weekly between Malaysia and Indonesia. With flights to 17 destinations across both countries, AirAsia offers the widest network, making it the top choice for exploring Asean conveniently and affordably From East Malaysia, travellers can enjoy convenient direct flights with AirAsia from Kota Kinabalu to Penang, Johor Bharu, Kota Bharu, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City, and many more. AirAsia ensures seamless connectivity via Kuala Lumpur to exciting Asean destinations including Da Lat, Chiang Mai, Krabi, Nha Trang, Makassar, and Brunei, among others. Kuala Lumpur serves as a main hub, connecting travellers to their dream getaways without the hassle of complex travel arrangements. Celebrating Asean is about embracing the region's cultural vibrancy and AirAsia brings this celebration to life by collaborating with Dolla, one of Malaysia's most exciting pop groups and a regional icon that resonates with young adventurers. Dolla embodies the spirit of exploration, energy, and creativity, making them the perfect face of the 'Unlock ASEAN in Real Life' campaign. Their influence adds a youthful flair to the campaign, appealing to travellers who see travel not just as a journey but as an experience to be shared and remembered. AirAsia's all-in one-way fares from RM69 are available for booking until Aug 10, 2025, for travel from Aug 18, 2025 to June 30, 2026. This allows you to plan ahead or simply pack a bag for a last-minute weekend adventure. The affordability of these fares makes Asean exploration accessible to a wider audience, breaking down barriers for students, young professionals, and families eager to create meaningful travel memories without breaking the bank. The airline's approach goes beyond low fares, it's about creating a seamless, enjoyable experience for travellers who crave flexibility and value. AirAsia's network and promotions encourage travellers to immerse themselves in local cultures, creating stories that last a lifetime. As Asean Day celebrates regional unity, AirAsia positions itself as a true connector of people, cultures, and opportunities. The airline's continued investment in network growth, particularly in Indonesia, reflects a commitment to supporting tourism recovery and strengthening cross-border ties post-pandemic. Every new route and added flight is an open invitation to travellers to explore, engage, and embrace the diversity of Southeast Asia. The 'Unlock Asean in Real Life with Dolla' campaign is a celebration of what makes the region extraordinary. The energy of Dolla, paired with AirAsia's extensive network and affordable fares, creates the perfect combination for travellers ready to rediscover the joys of regional travel. It's a call to adventure, a nudge to step beyond your comfort zone, and an opportunity to witness firsthand why Asean is a world of its own. AirAsia makes it easier than ever to say yes to travel with its one-way fares starting at RM69, daydreams can now be turned into itineraries and explore the richness of Asean on your terms. Book your next adventure now and celebrate Asean with AirAsia, your ultimate travel companion across Southeast Asia.
The Star
6 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Community champs
Working together: Maybank Group chief sustainability officer Shahril Azuar Jimin (left) posing for a photo with Srisangnam. Leading up to the Asean Day celebration on Aug 8, Maybank Foundation and Asean Foundation recently welcomed 100 youth volunteers and representatives from 10 civil society organisations (CSOs) and social enterprises (SEs) from across South-East Asia to the Regional Capacity Building Workshop for eMpowering Youths Across Asean (eYAA): Cohort 5, at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand. Held from July 20 to 23, the workshop paired young changemakers aged between 19 and 35 with CSOs and SEs to finalise 10 community-based projects that will soon be implemented in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, the latest country to join the programme. Building on online learning, the four-day regional gathering served as a crucial space for participants to refine their community projects, learn from experts and alumni, and strengthen their collaboration skills, laying the groundwork for meaningful and lasting impact in the communities they are set to work in. The projects were designed to reflect local needs and fall under four key focus areas: community building, arts and culture, environmental diversity, and education. Each team will receive up to US$25,000 (RM105,875) in grant support. The local CSOs and SEs will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the projects, where over the course of two weeks, the volunteers will live and work alongside local communities, co-developing solutions and building lasting connections that strengthen Asean unity from the ground up. The projects include the 'Youth EdXchange Programme' by Fly Technology Agriculture Sdn Bhd in Kuching, Sarawak, aimed at empowering youth to drive regional change and promoting green practices; and 'Seri Budaya' by Yayasan Anak-Anak Yatim Wardatul Jannah to uplift underserved youth and promote traditional performing arts in Kota Damansara, Selangor. When given the right tools to succeed, our youth, said Maybank Group and Maybank Foundation chairman Tan Sri Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, can be a constructive force for development. 'The power of youth lies not only in doing something great but also in uncovering their full potential and courage, enabling them to achieve meaningful things for the future,' he said in his opening remarks. Asean Foundation executive director Dr Piti Srisangnam said the programme offers a reminder that youth are not just future leaders – they are leading change today. 'Through eYAA, we are taking real steps towards achieving the Asean Community Vision 2045 – a region where youth are at the centre of building a more inclusive, innovative and resilient South-East Asia.' Since its launch in 2018, the eYAA – a people-centred initiative that directly contributes to the realisation of the Asean Socio-Cultural Community Blueprint 2025, particularly in building a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient Asean community – has empowered 382 youth volunteers, implemented 40 community projects, and positively impacted more than 89,000 individuals across the region.
