ASEAN Consuls General in Vancouver (ACGV) Committee Celebrates 58th Anniversary of ASEAN

VANCOUVER, BC. 08 August 2025 – The ASEAN Consuls General in Vancouver (ACGV) Committee, represented by Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, hosted an ASEAN Day Reception at the UBC Liu Institute for Global Issues on 07 August 2025, in celebration of the 58th Founding Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

This year, the Committee is chaired by Malaysian Consul General Mohd Afandi Abu Bakar who opened the program with welcome remarks. In his speech, he acknowledged Canada’s recognition of ASEAN’s strategic and growing importance, especially in today’s evolving global landscape.

Distinguished guests included B.C. Parliamentary Secretary for Trade, Hon. Paul Choi, and Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care and the Official Responsible for B.C.’s Consular Corps, Hon. Susie Chant. Both delivered congratulatory remarks, recognizing ASEAN as a dynamic regional bloc and reaffirming British Columbia’s commitment to further strengthening ties with Southeast Asia.

The reception also celebrated the rich cultural and culinary diversity of the ASEAN region. Guests were treated to an array of traditional delicacies from the five ASEAN countries, including “sate maranggi & lontong” from Indonesia, “mee goreng mamak” from Malaysia, “miang kham” from Thailand, fresh spring rolls from Vietnam and “kwek-kwek & ukoy” from the Philippines.

The highlight of the program was the singing of “The ASEAN Way,” the official anthem of the regional bloc, followed by the symbolic cutting of an ASEAN-themed cake. A talented violinist also serenaded the guests with musical pieces from the five ASEAN nations, enhancing the festive and collaborative spirit of the evening.Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin of the Philippines welcomed guests and friends of the Consulate who joined in celebrating ASEAN’s milestones. The event underscored ASEAN’s enduring relevance and the collective commitment of its members in Vancouver to promote regional cooperation and people-to-people ties in the Indo-Pacific.  END

(Clockwise) Malaysian Consul General Mohd Afandi Abu Bakar, current ACGV Chair, delivers the opening remarks on behalf of his ASEAN colleagues. B.C. Parliamentary Secretary for Trade, Hon. Paul Choi, and Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care and the Official Responsible for B.C.’s Consular Corps, Hon. Susie Chant, deliver their remarks and congratulatory messages. (Photos by Vancouver PCG)

(Photos above) Guests enjoy traditional delicacies from the five ASEAN countries, including “sate maranggi & lontong” (Indonesia), “mee goreng mamak” (Malaysia), “miang kham” (Thailand), fresh spring rolls (Vietnam) and “kwek-kwek & ukoy” (Philippines), showcasing the rich culinary heritage of Southeast Asia. (Photos by Malaysian Consulate)

Mr. Regi, a violinist, performs melodies from the five ASEAN countries, adding a harmonious touch to the celebration of the region’s cultural vibrancy. (Photos by Malaysian Consulate)

The Consuls General and members of the Technical Working Group of the ACGV Committee. (Photo by Vancouver PCG)

Philippine Consul General Gina A. Jamoralin with the guests and friends of the Philippine Consulate during the ASEAN Day Reception. (Photo by Vancouver PCG)

Vancouver PCG team with the Guest of Honor, B.C. Parliamentary Secretary for Trade, Hon. Paul Choi (center). (Photo by Vancouver PCG)