THE 46th ASEAN Summit will spotlight the rich cultural diversity of Southeast Asia and its global partners through a series of performances designed to promote unity and inclusivity, the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) has announced.
JKKN Director-General Mohd Amran Mohd Haris said the performance programme, including at the gala dinner hosted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on 26 May, has been carefully curated to reflect Malaysia’s multicultural identity while celebrating the heritage of other ASEAN nations and external partners such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and China.
“We’re incorporating elements from various cultures – from contemporary dances that reflect the Malaysian identity to ASEAN songs performed in the various languages of the region,” Mohd Amran told Bernama.
“It’s vital that all delegates feel a sense of belonging when watching the performances and for everyone to be able to enjoy the show. This is aligned with the theme of Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 that promotes the spirit of ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’ among member countries.”
Headlining the cultural showcase are renowned Malaysian performers including Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, Datuk Zainal Abidin, Shila Amzah, Bob Yusof, Asmidar, and Yasmin Aziz. In a nod to the international guests, Siti Nurhaliza will perform the Arabic hit Kun Anta alongside the Permata Seni Choir, honouring the presence of GCC representatives. Mandarin-speaking delegates will be treated to Zheng Fu, performed by Shila Amzah.
For ASEAN member states, the evening will feature a medley of regional national songs performed by Bob Yusof, Asmidar, and Yasmin Aziz, showcasing unity in diversity. They will be accompanied by musicians from the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, JKKN cultural artists, Permata Seni children’s groups, and performers from civil society organisations.
“The approach of incorporating cultural elements from various countries demonstrates how arts and culture can serve as a strong diplomatic bridge,” Mohd Amran added. “ASEAN is not just about economic or political cooperation, but also about cooperation in spirit, heritage, and identity.”
The 46th ASEAN Summit begins with the ASEAN Senior Officials’ Meeting on 23 May, followed by ministerial sessions on 25 May, and culminates in the leaders’ summit from 26 May. - May 23, 2025
