The 8th Forum of ASEAN-Associated Entities concluded on May 14, 2024, at the ASEAN Headquarters, fostering collaboration and engagement between ASEAN and its affiliated Centres and Entities.

ASEANSAI Secretariat had the opportunity to attend the forum which was attended by representatives from 80 entities associated with ASEAN listed in Annex 2 of the ASEAN Charter. The event opened with remarks from ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, who highlighted the growth of ASEAN organizations over time. He expressed his hope that the forum would continue to serve as a platform for meaningful discussions and collaboration to promote regional stability, friendship, and prosperity.

Ambassador Bovonethat Douangchak, Permanent Representative of Lao PDR to ASEAN, delivered a keynote presentation outlining the goals and priorities of the ASEAN Chairmanship for 2024, providing significant insights into ASEAN’s future direction. The morning session featured interactive discussions with ASEAN’s newly appointed Deputy Secretaries-General: Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz for the Political-Security Community and Nararya Soeprapto for Community and Corporate Affairs.

This session facilitated an exchange of ideas between the centres, entities, and the Deputy Secretaries-General. In the afternoon, the ASEAN Secretariat’s Programme Cooperation and Project Management Division presented information on how organizations can secure funding for projects within the ASEAN project cycle.

The forum concluded with a speed networking session, enabling attendees to connect directly and explore collaborative opportunities. This dynamic format fostered an environment for strengthening connections and identifying practical prospects for joint initiatives. Director Lee Yoong Yoong conclude the event by thanking all attendees for their enthusiastic participation. He expressed his hope that the forum would encourage greater collaboration among all parties, leading to more effective efforts in developing the ASEAN Community