Kuala lumpur: The ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) High-Level Forum has marked the beginning of a renewed collective effort towards achieving the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, according to Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. He emphasized that the three-day forum, which commenced yesterday, is designed to synchronize ASCC's priority areas with the broader vision of a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centered ASEAN.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the forum is strategically aligned with Malaysia's role as the ASCC Council Chair, focusing on the themes of 'Inclusivity and Sustainability.' Tiong highlighted that the ASCC's agenda is organized into five key areas: culture and heritage; artificial intelligence, digitalization, and green jobs; health; youth and sports potential; and climate action. These clusters aim to reflect ASEAN's collective goals as outlined in the newly adopted ASCC Strategic Plan.
Initiatives discussed at the forum include enhancing ASEAN identity and cultural appreciation, fortifying preparedness for public health crises, empowering youth through sports and innovation, and advancing climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. Tiong noted the region's ongoing commitment to stronger climate action through disaster management, reduction, and resilience-building.
Tiong also expressed optimism that the insights from ASCC Council Ministers will benefit the diverse participants, including government officials, private sector representatives, academia, think tanks, dialogue partners, youth organizations, NGOs, and civil society. He invited delegates to explore the ASEAN Arts and Crafts Bazaar, held in conjunction with the forum, which features artisans from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste.
Additionally, ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn remarked that the forum represents a milestone in promoting inclusivity and sustainability under Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship. He pointed out that the event, paired with the ASEAN Arts and Crafts Bazaar, offers a unique blend of high-level policy dialogue and grassroots cultural engagement, fostering connections between local artists and policymakers across the ASEAN region.
Dr. Kao highlighted the forum's role in promoting inclusivity by enabling direct interaction between artists and policymakers, demonstrating that meaningful progress is driven by diverse voices and perspectives.