Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – Malaysia, as ASEAN 2025 Chair, marked the bloc’s 58th founding anniversary on August 8 with a vibrant celebration in Cyberjaya, blending an official ceremony with a colorful cultural festival.
Over 700 guests, including leaders, diplomats, locals, and international friends turned the city into a “mini ASEAN,” bringing the theme “Towards an Inclusive and Sustainable ASEAN Future” to life through performances, warm exchanges, and shared traditions.
The main stage featured a seamless flow of cultural showcases, from Malaysia’s captivating Zapin dance and choral performances to the diverse artistic expressions of other ASEAN nations. Exhibition booths offered a sensory journey: Malaysia and Indonesia’s intricate Batik and Songket fabrics, Myanmar’s lacquerware, Vietnam’s rich coffee, and an array of regional delicacies.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stressed that ASEAN is not merely a bloc of governments, but a community of peoples committed to an inclusive, sustainable, and culturally rich future. The anniversary, he said, reaffirms the value of multilateral cooperation in a turbulent world.
During the event, PM Anwar and Speaker of the House of Representatives of Malaysia Tan Sri Dato’ Johari Bin Abdul visited Vietnam’s booth, sampling its signature coffee and praising its distinctive flavour./.
