ASEAN - ASEAN RECORDS

Muse Collection Malaysia Earns ASEAN Record for Luxury Sales Excellence

January 16, 2025January 16, 2025 admin Business Trade, News ASEAN, Malaysia

Muse Collection Malaysia has officially earned the prestigious ASEAN Record for ASEAN’s Highest Single Accessory Sale at RM109,800 for a Pendant and Most Luxury Fashion Goods Sold in a Single Live Streaming Session (796 Items, Totaling RM721,998)

This incredible achievement underscores Muse Collection Malaysia’s pioneering role in redefining luxury retail through innovative live streaming sales.

Setting New Standards in Luxury Retail

As of 15th January 2025, Muse Collection Malaysia has cemented its place as a leader in the luxury fashion industry. With the sale of an RM109,800 pendant and an unprecedented 796 luxury items sold during a single live streaming session, totaling RM721,998, the brand has set a benchmark for excellence across ASEAN.

“This achievement is more than just numbers—it’s about connecting with our community in a meaningful way,” said Amanda Loh, the young and visionary founder of Muse Collection Malaysia. “We’re proud to be shaping the future of luxury retail, blending timeless elegance with innovative digital experiences.”

Highlights of the Achievement

ASEAN’s Highest Single Accessory Sale:
- The sale of a RM109,800 pendant showcases the exceptional quality and exclusivity that Muse Collection Malaysia brings to its customers.
Innovative Live Streaming Sales:
- Selling 796 luxury items in a single session, Muse Collection has redefined how luxury fashion is experienced, engaging a global audience through digital platforms.

Inspiring the Future of Luxury Retail

Muse Collection Malaysia’s groundbreaking accomplishment demonstrates the power of innovation and community in transforming the luxury fashion landscape. By seamlessly combining exclusivity with accessibility, Muse Collection continues to inspire new standards of excellence across ASEAN and beyond.

About Muse Collection Malaysia

Muse Collection Malaysia is a leading luxury fashion brand, celebrated for its curated selection of high-end accessories and fashion goods. With a focus on elegance, exclusivity, and innovation, the brand has become a trailblazer in the ASEAN luxury market, connecting with customers through both traditional and digital channels.

For more information, visit Muse Collection’s Official Website or follow them on social media for updates.

ASEAN Records Officially Launched at the 2nd ASEAN Festival 2024

November 14, 2024November 18, 2024 admin Art & Entertainment, Building & Structure, Business Trade, Human Achievement, Nature, News, Science & Technology, Sport & Game ASEAN, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Timor-Leste, Vietnam

The ASEAN Records was officially launched today during the grand 2nd ASEAN Festival 2024, a four-day cultural festival held at GEM Box, Nilai. This monumental launch marks a new era in celebrating and documenting the extraordinary achievements within the ASEAN region, further strengthening regional unity and showcasing excellence.

Founded by Eldrick Koh and Gillian Ooi, ASEAN Records aims to honor exceptional achievements within the ASEAN community, encompassing individual, organizational, and collective contributions. With a commitment to fairness, credibility, and transparency, ASEAN Records sets a new standard for recognizing milestones that shape and inspire the region.

About ASEAN Records

ASEAN Records was officially approved by the ASEAN Secretariat on 1st December 2023, reinforcing its legitimacy as a trusted platform for honoring achievements across the region. The initiative focuses on measurable milestones that highlight contributions in areas such as cultural heritage, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

These records serve as benchmarks of credibility, ensuring each achievement is rigorously verified and meets the highest standards of authenticity. By celebrating these milestones, ASEAN Records highlights the strengths and potential of the ASEAN community, promoting pride and unity among its members.

The launch ceremony was officiated by Dr. Christina Yeo, representing YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Malaysia. Distinguished guests from ASEAN embassies and key organizations were present, including:

Y.M. Tengku Dato’ Dr Hishammudin Zaizi Bin Y.A.M. Tengku Bendahara Azman Shah Alhaj
Mr. Eldrick Koh – Founder, ASEAN Records & Organizing Chairman of ASEAN Festival
Ms. Gillian Ooi – Founder, ASEAN Records
H.E. Thepthavone Sengmany – Ambassador of Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Malaysia
H.E. Aung Soe Win – Ambassador of Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar
H.E. Lisualdo Gaspar – Ambassador of Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste
Ms. Tran Thi Chang – President, Malaysia-Vietnam Friendship Association
Mr. Roussel Reyes – Consul General, Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines

**H.E. Thepthavone Sengmany** Ambassador of Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to Malaysia

**H.E. Aung Soe Win** Ambassador of Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar

**Ms. Tran Thi Chang** President, Malaysia-Vietnam Friendship Association

**Mr. Roussel Reyes** Consul General, Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines

**H.E. Lisualdo Gaspar** Ambassador of Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

The Vision of ASEAN Records

Our vision is to create a platform that not only celebrates achievements but also inspires a culture of excellence within the ASEAN region. These records symbolize the resilience, creativity, and innovation of the people and organizations in our community.

ASEAN Records is more than just a recognition platform. It is a movement to spotlight the potential and extraordinary accomplishments of our region, bringing attention to stories that inspire and unite us.

Asia Big Power Sdn Bhd has achieved an ASEAN Record for creating Malaysia’s Largest Rooftop Beverage Can Replica: BIG BEE Honey Drinks Can Replica, measuring 10.65 meters in height and 6.03 meters in diameter

*City Coin Laundry Sdn Bhd has achieved an ASEAN Record for the Largest Self-Service Laundromat Chain in ASEAN, with 760 outlets*

*Eco Foodsoft (M) Sdn Bhd has achieved an ASEAN Record for ASEAN’s Largest Earthworm Farm by Monthly Vermicast Production, producing over 10 tons monthly*

*Rest N Go App Sdn Bhd (formerly Gintell Rest N Go) has achieved an ASEAN Record for the Largest Deployment of Vending Massage Chairs in ASEAN, with 6,691 units across seven ASEAN countries*

A Platform for Achievements

ASEAN Records honors achievements that represent the diverse strengths of ASEAN, from cultural heritage preservation to groundbreaking innovation and entrepreneurship. Each recognition undergoes a rigorous verification process, ensuring the integrity of every milestone documented.

By recognizing these contributions, ASEAN Records fosters pride in the region and creates opportunities for collaboration and growth across member countries.

*Performance from the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste*

*Performance from the Socialist Republic of Vietnam*

Cambodia Malaysia Business Forum Strengthens Bilateral Economic Ties

February 28, 2024March 1, 2024 admin Business Trade, News ASEAN, Cambodia, Malaysia, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet

The Cambodia Malaysia Business Forum, co-hosted by the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC) and the Malaysian Business Chamber of Cambodia (MBCC), marked a significant milestone in fostering collaborative economic potential between the Kingdom of Cambodia and Malaysia. Held in Kuala Lumpur on the 27th of February 2024, the forum was supported by key governmental and business entities, including the Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA), the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), and the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (NCCIM).

The event convened over 400 participants, including Prime Minister of Cambodia Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, deputy prime ministers, ministers, senior government officials, trade delegates, and business leaders from both nations. A highlight of the forum was a panel discussion featuring representatives from the Council for Development of Cambodia, MIDA, MATRADE, the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), and CCC, providing insights into investment climate and bilateral trade dynamics.

In his keynote address, Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underscored the enduring relations between Cambodia and Malaysia, emphasizing Malaysia’s significant role as one of the earliest and largest foreign direct investors in Cambodia. He expressed optimism about the forum’s potential to elevate bilateral trade and investment relations, particularly in sectors such as rice, cashew nuts, automotive, electronics, and renewable energy.

Neak Oknha Kith Meng, President of CCC and Chair of ASEAN-BAC Cambodia, highlighted the distinctiveness of Malaysian investments in Cambodia and urged Malaysian investors to leverage Cambodia’s strategic position in ASEAN and its favorable investment laws and policies.

Oknha Tan Khee Meng, President of MBCC, shared success stories of Malaysian investors in Cambodia and encouraged further investment in sectors like renewable energy and agro-processing.

Tan Sri Dato’ Soh Thian Lai, President of NCCIM, emphasized Malaysia’s strengths in industries such as rubber and palm oil processing, pharmaceuticals, and electronics, highlighting the potential for establishing industrial parks in Cambodia.

H.E. Mr. Sok Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; H.E. Mr. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice President of of The Council for the Development of Cambodia; Neak Oknha Kith Meng, President of Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC); Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia; Oknha Tan Khee Meng, President of Malaysian Business Chamber of Cambodia (MBCC); YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry of Malaysia; H.E. Datuk Eldeen Husaini Mohd Hashim, Malaysian Ambassador to Cambodia; Tan Sri Dato’ Soh Thian Lai, President of National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (NCCIM)

The forum concluded with a business matching gala dinner, facilitating discussions and partnerships between Malaysian and Cambodian businesses, setting the stage for future economic cooperation.

This event signifies a shared commitment to prosperity and growth between Cambodia and Malaysia, paving the way for tangible outcomes and long-term benefits for both nations.

About the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC): The CCC fosters a business-friendly environment in Cambodia, providing advocacy, advice, and networking opportunities to the business community.

About the Malaysian Business Chamber of Cambodia (MBCC): The MBCC serves as a vital link between Malaysian businesses and the Cambodian market, offering support, networking, and business development opportunities.

Myanmar will not be allowed ASEAN leadership in 2026

September 7, 2023September 7, 2023 admin News ASEAN, Indonesia, Philippines

Southeast Asian leaders have decided that Myanmar will not take over the rotating leadership of their regional bloc as scheduled in 2026, according to Asian diplomats and the leader of the Philippines.

The decision, revealed on Tuesday at an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders’ summit taking place in Indonesia, is the latest blow to efforts by Myanmar’s ruling generals to gain international recognition after violently seizing power in 2021.

Western governments have condemned the Myanmar military’s removal of Aung San Suu Kyi’s democratically elected government and have demanded her release from detention, along with other officials.

The Philippines agreed to take over the regional bloc’s chairmanship in 2026 at the ASEAN summit, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said in a statement, citing what he told fellow leaders in the closed-door meetings.

“It is my pleasure to announce that the Philippines is ready to take the helm and chair ASEAN in 2026,” Marcos told his ASEAN counterparts in Jakarta, the statement from the presidential palace said.

“We will fortify the foundations of our community-building and navigate ASEAN as it embarks on a new chapter.”

Marcos did not say why the Philippines was taking over the chair from Myanmar.

ASEAN’s leadership rotates annually based on the alphabetical order of the English names of the member states.

A member state at the helm chairs the ASEAN summit and related summits and the group’s various bodies in line with the ASEAN charter.

Source: Aljazeera

Asean bloc to hold first joint military drills

June 9, 2023June 10, 2023 admin News ASEAN, Include Myanmar Junta, Military Drill, Nations

South-East Asian nations have agreed to hold their first-ever joint military drills in the South China Sea, Indonesian officials said Thursday, as tensions grow over China’s increasing assertiveness in the region.

“We will hold joint military drills in the North Natuna Sea,” Indonesian military chief Yudo Margono said after a meeting of Southeast Asian defence chiefs in Bali, state news agency Antara reported.

They will take place in September involving all 10 members of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (Asean) bloc and observer member Timor-Leste, he said.

That would include junta-ruled Myanmar, where the military has overthrown a civilian leader and overseen a bloody crackdown on dissent that has resulted in wide-ranging US and EU sanctions.

Margono said the exercises will focus on maritime security and rescue, and will not involve combat operations.

“It is about Asean centrality,” he said.

The bloc’s members have held naval drills with the United States before but never military exercises as a bloc on its own.

The announcement comes after Washington called on Beijing to stop “provocative” behaviour in the disputed waterway after a near-collision with a Philippine vessel and a Chinese fighter pilot’s dangerous manoeuvre near an American surveillance aircraft.

Chinese vessels have also occasionally intruded into the Indonesian-claimed waters of North Natuna where the drills will take place, prompting protests in Jakarta.

China says most of the South China Sea is its own despite competing claims from other Southeast Asian nations including Indonesia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Malaysia.

Beijing’s ships have patrolled the area and when confronted have invoked China’s so-called nine-dash line — an area it claims but is contested by its neighbours — to justify its alleged historic rights to the waters.

At a summit last month, Asean leaders discussed “serious incidents” in the South China Sea and ongoing negotiations for a code of conduct aimed at reducing the risk of conflict there.

Asean has long been decried by critics as a toothless talking shop, and its charter principles of consensus and non-interference have hamstrung its ability to take action.

The bloc will hold its next leaders’ summit in Indonesian capital Jakarta in September. – AFP

Source: thestar.com.my

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to providing support for Indonesia

June 6, 2023June 6, 2023 admin Business Trade, News ASEAN, Indonesia, United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its strong commitment to supporting Indonesia’s ASEAN chairmanship through the visit of the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and ASEAN Richard Graham MP.

Graham is visiting Indonesia from June 5–7, 2023, highlighting the UK’s strong support for Indonesia’s ASEAN chairmanship, the British Embassy in Jakarta said in a press statement on Monday.

During his visit, Graham will meet Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, to discuss the UK’s support for a number of economic deliverables of Indonesia’s ASEAN chairmanship.

He will also meet ASEAN Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn to enquire how the UK can further support ASEAN in its economic integration journey post 2025.

His eleventh visit as the UK Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and ASEAN underlines the UK’s commitment to both bilateral and multinational partnership in the region, focused on economic growth and development, Graham said.

Graham is also scheduled to meet Minister of Trade Zulkifli Hasan; National Development Planning Minister/head of the National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas) Suharso Monoarfa; and head of the New Capital City Authority (OIKN) to discuss potential commercial collaboration in Nusantara.

The visit follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on bilateral investment promotion with the Indonesian Investment Minister last year, which encourages two-way investment between the two countries.

Furthermore, Graham will also visit Surabaya and meet several interlocutors, including the Governor of East Java, Khofifah Indar Parawansa, and the Mayor of Surabaya, Eri Cahyadi, to discuss trade and investment opportunities in sustainable transport, defense, green energy, and education.

The UK is of the view that Indonesia’s ASEAN chairmanship year holds tremendous significance for the Southeast Asian region and beyond, and it is keen on playing an active role in supporting Indonesia’s efforts to promote regional prosperity and resilience.

As a key partner of ASEAN, the UK is committed to fostering even closer ties with Indonesia, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the region’s economic landscape, the British Embassy said in its statement.

As ASEAN chair this year, Indonesia plays a critical role in driving the bloc’s many ambitions. He looks forward to seeing key Indonesian interlocutors and the ASEAN secretary general to discuss ways to deepen our relationship, Graham said.

Meanwhile, the UK Ambassador to ASEAN, Sarah Tiffin, said that 2023 is the second year of the UK’s Dialogue Partnership with ASEAN, and marks one year of the ASEAN-UK Plan of Action and driving forward the delivery of the plans it contains.

The UK supports Indonesia’s ambitious agenda as ASEAN chair, including to progress the region’s economic integration efforts, Ambassador Tiffin said, adding that rhe UK is proud to support this, including through the delivery of the priority economic deliverables (PED) Indonesia has identified.

The Prime Minister’s Trade Envoys are a network of UK parliamentarians who are appointed to foster trade and investment opportunities in their respective markets.

Source: antaranews.com

ASEAN Set to Emerge as the Global Economic Powerhouse: Transforming the World Economy

May 18, 2023May 22, 2023 admin News ASEAN, economic, heavyweight

Asean is demonstrating its confidence in becoming a new global economic powerhouse, which was reflected at a summit held here from May 10-11.

This year’s 42nd Asean Summit was held under Indonesia’s Asean chairmanship.

“We have a strong asset as the epicentre of growth, an economy that grows far above average global economic growth, demographic bonuses and sustained regional stability,” Indonesian President Joko Widodo said on May 10 at the summit’s opening session.

In his remarks at the summit, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, quoted by Vietnam News Agency, highlighted three core factors to Asean’s characteristics – values, vitality and reputation – which have helped the regional bloc maintain independence and strategic self-reliance, transform into a growth epicentre and better adapt to external shocks.

In an April report, the Asian Development Bank projected that the economies in the Asia-Pacific region will grow 4.8% this year and next year, up from 4.2% in 2022, adding that growth in the region remained resilient.

Leaders and senior officials are engaging in productive bilateral and multilateral meetings. For example, Widodo met with Pham on May 9 and discussed joint efforts toward a bilateral trade target of US$15bil (RM67bil) by 2028.

In his opening remarks, Widodo mentioned the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) as part of efforts to reinforce inclusive cooperation for Asean in the future.

The trade deal comprises 15 Asia-Pacific countries, including the 10 Asean member states and Asean’s five trading partners, namely, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

According to the World Bank, RCEP, the world’s largest free trade area, contributes US$25.8 trillion (RM116 trillion) or about 30% of global gross domestic product, and accounts for US$12.7 trillion (RM57 trillion) or over a quarter of global trade in goods and services.

Noting that China and Asean were each other’s largest trading partners, Indonesian Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno said he saw “the relationship between Asean and China beneficial for the world”.

The International Monetary Fund said in April’s World Economic Outlook report that the reopening and growth of China’s economy will likely generate positive spillover for countries with stronger trade links and reliance on Chinese tourism.

“After China’s reopening, we are looking to achieve more equitable trade between Asean and China,” Uno said. — China Daily/ANN

Source: thestar.com.my

Best 50’s for Visit ASEAN

July 1, 2016March 30, 2023 admin News ASEAN

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was founded on the 8th of August 1967 by Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia. Membership has since
expanded to include Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam. Come next year in 2017, the formation of Asean shall mark its 50th year and with it the tourism industry is rolling out the exciting ASEAN@50: Golden Celebration.

National tourism organisations in the ASEAN countries will jointly celebrate the momentous ASEAN@50 campaign to promote the region as a single and united tourism destination.
The exciting campaign shall see the best 50 festivals and 50 unforgettable travel experiences put together as the main itinerary for 2017.

Among others, it will include promotion and offers of destinations, culinary, events, engagements with local communities and leverage on selected UNESCO World Heritage sites
to attract 121 million international visitors arrivals by the end of 2017. The typically warm hospitality in cultural, heritage and nature of ASEAN will be given added emphasis so that visitors, especially from China, Japan, Korea, India, Australia, UK, Germany, Russia, UAE, USA and Canada will find the region appealing not only during the 50th year
but remain as their top choice travel destination in the years to come.

“In the past, each operator has been (marketing these packages) on his own, and now he will get support from ASEAN. It will not be done haphazardly, it will be done properly
with the support of ASEAN,” said YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri Aziz, Minister of Tourism and Culture of Malaysia, at ITB Berlin on the 10th of March this year where the Visit ASEAN@50:Golden Celebration was first showcased by ASEAN tourism ministers and leaders. He also believes the ASEAN@50 will “motivate” member countries to ease visa requirements for the visitors.

With the encouraging growth of 5% last year in international tourist arrivals as measured by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), estimated to be above the average growth of
worldwide international tourist arrivals at 4%, ASEAN@50 looks promising.

Key Activities in 2017

Official launch at ASEAN Tourism Forum in January 2017 in Singapore.
Media familiarisation trips showcasing ASEAN connectivity and multi-country travel routes.
Special tour packages with offers, special airfare, shopping discounts for travels in 2017.
Campaign promotion in international travel trade shows in key source markets such as ITB Berlin, SATTE India, Korea World Travel Show, China International • Travel Mart and events in ASEAN countries.
Cooperative marketing programs with travel, media and airline partners.
Print and online advertising as well as TV and YouTube.
Social media campaigns to enhance consumer engagement.
Public relations, trade marketing, international and sector marketing activities throughout 2017.
Promotional programme through ASEAN NTOs in Trade, Consumer as well as MICE throughout 2017.