JAKARTA, 8 August 2025 – ASEAN marked its 58th Anniversary with a significant dual celebration held simultaneously at the ASEAN Secretariat/ASEAN Headquarters in Jakarta and the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan. Themed “Towards Inclusive and Sustainable ASEAN Future,” the day’s events underscored ASEAN’s commitment to its people and the planet, bringing together a diverse array of diplomatic representatives, private sector stakeholders, and the public.
The morning ceremony in Jakarta was opened with remarks from The Secretary General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, who reflected on ASEAN’s journey and future aspirations. ‘’This year’s theme serves as a powerful call to action for all of us. An inclusive ASEAN is one where every Member State, every community, and every individual can contribute to and benefit from our collective growth. A sustainable ASEAN prioritises the well-being of our people and the health of our planet, ensuring that future generations inherit a vibrant, thriving, and resilient region,’’ said Dr. Kao.
Participants also viewed a pre-recorded message from YB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia and this year’s Chairman of ASEAN. ‘’In this environment, ASEAN’s unity is more vital than ever. Our ability to speak clearly, to coordinate effectively, and to protect our shared interests will shape our relevance in the years ahead. From digitalisation to decarbonisation, ASEAN must prepare our people for transitions already under way. To adapt, advance and thrive, we must keep investing in skills, infrastructure, and institutional capacity.’’
Foreign Minister of Indonesia, H.E. Sugiono, also emphasised on the importance of ASEAN’s latest vision. “This year, we begin implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, and we must ensure that it moves beyond aspiration by turning this vision into action. This is our moment, our people want impact more than just plans. More than that, we need intangible outcomes.”
The ceremony emphasised inclusivity through captivating cultural performances by artists with disabilities and those on the autism spectrum, celebrating the rich tapestry of ASEAN’s heritage in a truly representative way.
The ASEAN Day witnessed the official launch of a new sustainability initiative marked by the commencement of the official operations for a fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) and their accompanying charging stations by Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea (ROK) to ASEAN Lee Jang-keun, and Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Thailand to ASEAN Phantipha Iamsudha Ekarohit, as country coordinator for ASEAN-ROK Dialogue Relations. This project, funded by the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF), is a tangible step toward strengthening the ASEAN Secretariat’s/ASEAN Headquarters operational capacity by adopting energy-efficient technologies. It also demonstrates ASEC’s commitment to a greener future.
The afternoon programme continued was filled with festivities, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the ASEAN Food Festival, showcasing the region’s diverse and delicious culinary traditions. An Exhibition on Inclusive & Sustainable Products/Practices highlighted innovative approaches to a greener lifestyle. This was complemented by a panel discussion and workshop on “Living a Sustainable Life,” which featured practical sessions with notable sustainable businesses from the region, including Setali, Demi Bumi, DuAnyam, Sirsak.co, and the Maybank Foundation. These sessions provided participants with actionable insights into sustainable living.
Meanwhile, for the first time ever, ASEAN Day was celebrated within the World Expo. The historic event was held at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, and was a testament to ASEAN’s growing international presence and its close ties with Japan, a key Dialogue Partner. The commemoration was led by Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary-General of the ASEAN Economic Community, and featured participation from representatives of all ASEAN Member States, Timor-Leste, Dialogue Partners, and various ASEAN entities.
The celebration in Osaka included a lively marching parade, with representatives from the pavilions of all ASEAN Member States, the ASEAN Secretariat, and other ASEAN organs. The highlight of the day was a cultural music performance by C asean Consonant, a traditional ensemble comprised of ten talented musicians, each playing one national musical instrument from an ASEAN Member State. The ensemble captivated the audience with a harmonious blend of the region’s diverse sounds.
A joint press conference was held with DSG Satvinder Singh and YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, (MITI) Malaysia, where they addressed the importance of ASEAN’s economic integration and its role in fostering a sustainable and inclusive future for the region, particularly in collaboration with key partners like Japan.
The commemoration of the 58th ASEAN Day, held concurrently in Jakarta and Osaka, demonstrates ASEAN’s commitment to peace, cooperation, and sustainable development, both within ASEAN and with its international partners. The dual celebration served as a successful outreach and advocacy effort by the ASEAN Secretariat, effectively bringing ASEAN’s message and community spirit to a wider global audience.
AloJapan.com