News Desk
KARACHI: The Consulate General of Malaysia in Karachi hosted a special ceremony to commemorate the 58th Anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), commonly referred to as ASEAN Day, at the Consulate premises today.
The ceremony brought together the Heads of Missions of ASEAN countries in Karachi, reaffirming the spirit of unity, friendship, and regional cooperation among ASEAN Member States. The event was also graced by the presence of Ms. Sadia Gohar Khanum, Deputy Chief of Protocol, who represented Mr. Irfan Somroo, Director General of the Foreign Affairs Liaison Office (FALO) in Karachi, as the Special Guest.
The commemoration began with the hoisting of the ASEAN Flag, accompanied by the official ASEAN Anthem, “The ASEAN Way.” This symbolic act marked ASEAN’s enduring commitment to peace, progress and partnership across Southeast Asia.
Following the flag-raising ceremony, guests participated in a group photo session, a cake-cutting ceremony, and a presentation of commemorative shields to honour the contributions and cooperation of ASEAN diplomatic missions in Karachi.
In his welcoming remarks, His Excellency Mr. Herman Hardynata Ahmad, Consul General of Malaysia in Karachi, expressed appreciation to the ASEAN colleagues and local partners for their continued collaboration and commitment to ASEAN ideals. He also highlighted the importance of Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025, a timely opportunity to further regional integration and economic resilience.
The gathering then viewed a pre-recorded message by the Honourable Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in conjunction with ASEAN Day. In his message, the Prime Minister emphasized Malaysia’s strong support for ASEAN unity and its active role in ensuring a peaceful and prosperous future for the region.
The event concluded with a networking session over refreshments, fostering camaraderie and continued dialogue among ASEAN missions and Pakistani counterparts.
The Consulate General of Malaysia remains committed to promoting ASEAN solidarity and expanding cooperation between ASEAN and Pakistan in the areas of diplomacy, trade, culture, education, and people-to-people exchange.
