UCLG ASPAC, Secretariat of the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum (AGMF), took note the transition of ASEAN’s Chairmanship from Lao PDR to Malaysia in 2025, as symbolically suggested by the passing of gavel to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the Closing Ceremony of the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane on October 11, 2024. UCLG ASPAC congratulates Malaysia for the position and is looking forward to exploring collaboration opportunities for the success of ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 contributing to ASEAN Community Vision 2025.
The Logo and Theme for ASEAN Chairmanship 2025
Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs unveiled the official logo and theme for its Chairmanship. The theme, “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” reflects Malaysia’s aspirations for fostering a unified and prosperous ASEAN. The logo, inspired by the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Malaysia’s national flower, encapsulates ASEAN’s identity and values.
The hibiscus design features five petals curving inward toward the ASEAN emblem, symbolising Malaysia’s dedication to fostering peace, stability, and sustainable development across the region. At the centre, the ASEAN logo emphasises the concept of ASEAN centrality, reaffirming the bloc’s pivotal role as a regional framework for unity and collaboration. The encircling petals represent the collective resolve to achieve long-term sustainability. The logo’s colours—blue, red, yellow, and white—mirror the flags of ASEAN member states, further emphasising the spirit of unity. Malaysia’s Foreign Minister also reiterated the country’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that ASEAN remains a free, peaceful, and neutral entity amidst complex global dynamics.
Malaysia’s upcoming Chairmanship marks its fifth time leading ASEAN, following previous tenures in 1977, 1997, 2005, and 2015. With a wealth of experience, the Malaysian government is well-prepared to guide the region effectively. The administration has demonstrated its readiness to host and manage ASEAN’s key initiatives, ensuring a meaningful and impactful tenure.
As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia will oversee significant events and policy advancements, including the culmination of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025. This milestone year provides an opportunity to reflect on the bloc’s achievements since the Vision’s inception and to outline strategic goals for the future.
The Significance of the ASEAN Chairmanship
The ASEAN Chairmanship is both a symbolic and practical platform for advancing regional cooperation. For Malaysia, it offers an opportunity to demonstrate leadership on the global stage while aligning member states toward shared goals. As Chair, Malaysia will steer ASEAN through a year of transformative initiatives, leveraging its experience and commitment to collaboration.
Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 holds the promise of unity, progress, and sustainability. Guided by its theme and symbolised by the Hibiscus-inspired logo, Malaysia is poised to lead initiatives that strengthen resilience, foster inclusive growth, and address emerging challenges. The smooth handover from Lao PDR reflects the continuity of ASEAN’s shared vision, while Malaysia’s preparedness and dedication position it as a capable and visionary leader.
As ASEAN enters this pivotal year, the Chairmanship underscores the importance of unity in diversity and the collective ambition of its member states to create a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region for all.
Local and Regional Governments Leaders look forward to having its meeting in Kuala Lumpur next year under the framework of the ASEAN Governors and Mayors Forum.
Photo/image:
https://www.asean.org/
https://www.kln.gov.my/
