PUTRAJAYA, Aug 10 — Malaysia marked nearly six decades of partnership, contribution and commitment to ASEAN at a celebration commemorating the regional grouping’s 59th founding anniversary today.
The ASEAN Day celebration at Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry was attended by about 300 guests and showcased Malaysia’s journey with the regional grouping since its establishment in 1967.
The Foreign Ministry said the celebration, held under the theme '59 Years of Navigating Together', reflected the bloc's shared commitment while further strengthening the ties that bind Southeast Asian nations together.
“This year marks a significant milestone in ASEAN’s journey. Built upon its three key pillars, political-security, economic, and socio-cultural, ASEAN continues to demonstrate the strength, solidarity, and resilience of its community,” it said in a statement.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan officiated the event.
Also present were Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, Deputy Foreign Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, diplomats, government officials, and representatives of international organisations.
The celebration also featured a screening of the ASEAN Journey: Navigating Our Future, Together - 59 Years of Malaysia in ASEAN video montage, as well as a cake-cutting ceremony led by Mohamad.
Established on August 8, 1967, by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand through the signing of the Bangkok Declaration, ASEAN has since expanded from five to 11 members.
Brunei joined the grouping in 1984, Vietnam in 1995, Laos and Myanmar in 1997, Cambodia in 1999, while Timor-Leste, its newest member, was admitted during the 47th ASEAN Summit in October last year.
