Today, Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim received the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel from the Prime Minister of Lao People’s Democratic Republic, His Excellency Sonexay Siphandone, during the Closing Ceremony of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits and Handing Over Ceremony of the ASEAN Chairmanship in Vientiane. The symbolic event marks the assumption of Malaysia as the Chair of ASEAN next year, which will officially commence on 1 January 2025.

The ceremony was attended by the Leaders and representatives of ASEAN Member States, as well as Timor Leste as Observer country. Also in attendance were Ministers and senior officials from all ASEAN Member States.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister also unveiled the official logo and theme for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, “Inclusivity and Sustainability”.

In his address, the Prime Minister expressed that Malaysia was honoured to assume the role of Chair of ASEAN for 2025. He underscored Malaysia's commitment to guiding ASEAN towards strengthening regional peace, stability and prosperity.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the significance of 2025 as it marks the 10th anniversary of the formal establishment of the ASEAN Community. Additionally, the Prime Minister stated that next year, ASEAN will adopt the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which will chart the shared future of ASEAN for the next two decades.

The Prime Minister also shared Malaysia’s vision for its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, centred on the chosen theme, pledging to ensure that no one is left behind. He emphasised Malaysia’s aim to enhance regional cooperation through dialogue and collaboration. Guided by ASEAN Centrality, he stressed that Malaysia will work closely with all ASEAN Member States and external partners to champion an open, inclusive and rules-based regional architecture.

The ceremony concluded with a video montage of Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship 2025.

Source: Official Portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia

Original publication date: 11 October 2024