22 August 2024, Vancouver, B.C. – To celebrate the 57th Anniversary of ASEAN, the ASEAN Consuls General in Vancouver (ACGV) Committee, represented by Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, hosted an ASEAN Day Reception at the Indonesian Consulate General Grand Hall on 7 August 2024.
The program featured performances by two Indonesian music students, Regi and Bimo, who played Rayuan Pulau Kelapa from Indonesia, Anak from the Philippines, and Getaran Jiwa from Malaysia while awaiting the arrival of the guests.
The occasion also showcased native delicacies from the five ASEAN countries such as: dadar gulung from Indonesia, med kanoon from Thailand, kuih bakar pandan and kuih bingka ubi from Malaysia, as well as turon from the Philippines, among others.
Consul General Hendra Halim of Indonesia, current Chair of the ACGV, delivered the welcome remarks. In his speech, he highlighted Canada’s recognition of the dynamic and growing importance of the ASEAN region. He also remarked that the trade missions undertaken by Canada to the ASEAN countries reflected a strong desire to deepen economic ties, foster mutual growth, and enhance collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges.
The highlight of the program was the singing of The ASEAN Way followed by the symbolic cutting of the ASEAN-themed cake.
Vocal performances of Shade of K’nia Tree by Consul General Thu Phan of Vietnam, and Dahil sa Iyo by Vancouver PCG’s very own Ms. Christina Aquino concluded the program.
This ASEAN Day reception is significant as it is the very first collaborative activity of ACGV to celebrate ASEAN’s anniversary, fortifying their unity as they embraced the opportunities ahead and continue to build bridges that connect peoples and nations. END.
