The ASEAN Festival 2023, hosted at the prestigious LaLaport BBCC in Kuala Lumpur from 30th November to 3rd December 2023, has concluded with tremendous success. Organized by GenYouth, the event was a harmonious convergence of ASEAN’s rich and diverse heritage, immersing visitors in vibrant cultures, delectable cuisines, captivating music, awe-inspiring performances, and more – all under one dynamic roof. It was truly a celebration of the unity and diversity inherent in the ASEAN region.
This significant event, generously supported by Tourism Malaysia through the provision of Cuti-Cuti Malaysia and Malaysia Truly Asia, saw active participation from Tourism Malaysia and Malaysia MADANI by JPM, featuring booths during the festival. A highlight was the remarkable ASEAN Mini Museum, showcasing the cultural wealth of ASEAN embassies.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE FESTIVAL:
ASEAN Market: With about 100 booths, offering diverse products and crafts from member countries. Vendors from ASEAN nations flew in, contributing to this cultural extravaganza with unique goods, street food, and F&B delights.
ASEAN Travel Fair: Golden Destinations and Suka Travel presented the Muslim and Non-Muslim ASEAN Travel Fair, featuring representatives from various travel agencies. Visitors explored the rich tapestry of experiences available in the region.
ASEAN Music Festival: The festival hosted cultural shows by Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia embassies, featuring traditional dances, Muay Thai, Indonesian Traditional Dance, Fashion Show, Vietnamese Cultural Show, and live bands throughout the four days.
The festival kicked off with a Grand Opening Ceremony featuring the esteemed presence of H.E. Walid Abu Ali, Embassy of the State of Palestine, and H.E. Betty Oyella Bigombe, High Commission of The Republic of Uganda, H.E Ouk Chandara, Ambassador, Royal Embassy of Cambodia, H.E. Viengsavanh Sipraseuth Ambassador, The Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, H.E. Aung Soe Win Ambassador-Designate, Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, and distinguished embassy representatives from various countries. Mr. Mohd Yusri Bin Mhod Yusoff, Deputy Secretary-General (Culture) Ministry of Tourism, Art, and Culture Malaysia and Mohd Shahrir Mohd Ali, Director International Promotion (ASEAN), witnessed the 1st ASEAN Festival in Malaysia. The launch marked a historic moment as ASEAN embassies and dignitaries jointly inaugurated the ASEAN Festival, setting a record for the first and largest ASEAN Festival in Malaysia.
The second day witnessed the launch of ASEAN Cashless Day, with MDEC as the Guest of Honor. More than 20 business associations and their presidents joined the momentous occasion, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to innovation.
The 3rd day of ASEAN Festival dedicated to recognizing achievements, as the Youth Achievement Records Presentation Ceremony taken the center stage. The day also featured various kids show including “Ao Dai Show” by 20 Vietnam Kids”, Indonesian Raipai Aceh From Aceh” by Indoneisan School of Kuala Lumpur, Malayisa Kids Fashion Show, Muay Thai Show. The Youth Achievement Records Ceremony recognized outstanding individuals in various fields. 13 records were acknowledged, with 12 individuals receiving certificates by Director of International Youth Center representing the Guest of Honor, YB Hannah, Minister of Youth and Sports. For more information on Youth Achievement Records.
The festival concludes on the 3rd of December with a mix of cultural performances including Lion Dance, fashion shows, and Muay Thai demonstrations.
Besides, attendees were treated to an array of exciting Lucky Draw Prizes worth RM20,000, which included domestic and overseas travel packages to Bangkok, Langkawi, Penang, promising unforgettable getaways. Other coveted prizes encompassed Vivo phones, Honor watches, cutting-edge RAZER gadgets, VANZO Perfume sets, Vanilla Mille Crepe, FIPPER and MILLIOT & CO. cash vouchers, mouth-watering US Pizza slices and vouchers, EUREKA popcorn, irresistible The Famous Amos Cookies and vouchers, among many more enticing offerings.
Looking ahead, the organizers are already planning for ASEAN Festival 2024, aiming to build on the success of this year and create an even more unforgettable experience for attendees. The ASEAN Festival 2023 has truly been a celebration of unity, diversity, and the spirit of ASEAN. For more information and updates, follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/ASEANfestival, https://www.instagram.com/ASEANfestival/