Singapore can now breathe easier as the 33rd ASEAN Summit came to a close yesterday, marking the end of its chairmanship. The second ASEAN summit of the year was a “star-studded affair” compared to the earlier one held in April.
Former Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Musa Hitam will be representing Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Najib Razak as head of the Malaysian delegation to the 32nd ASEAN Summit held in Singapore from 27-28 April 2018.While no explicit reason for Razak's absence was given, Razak who is also party chairman of the ruling Barisan Nasional, is expected to be tending to domestic commitments as Malaysia braces for elections in early May.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is widely regarded as an elitist organisation. While it’s intergovernmental nature may merit such an opinion, discussions at ASEAN Summits and related meetings does have palpable impact on the lives of ordinary ASEAN citizens.A crucial point to understand is that unlike other regional organisations, ASEAN is an extremely diverse set of nations with varying economic strengths, cultural backgrounds and ideological underpinnings.
The upcoming Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit taking place in Singapore this week will be the 32nd in the association’s history. Apart from all the pomp and splendour of state banquets, red carpet receptions and elbow brushing amongst top regional leaders, there is plenty of work to be achieved during the many high-level meetings at the summit.
It’s that time of year again. Starting from tomorrow, the heads of state from all 10 ASEAN countries will meet and discuss the biggest issues in the region today. Hosting the ASEAN Summit for the 32nd time is Singapore, the Chairman of ASEAN 2018. The theme of Singapore’s chairmanship is “Resilient and Innovative”, which perfectly encapsulates the attitude ASEAN needs to take in the face of today’s global challenges.
Myanmar State Counsellor and de facto leader, Aung San Suu Kyi will be skipping the 32nd edition of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit taking place in Singapore this week. This will be her first time missing the summit after coming into power in 2016.According to government spokesperson, Zaw Htay, newly sworn President Win Myint will be taking Suu Kyi’s place. He did not specify the exact reason for her absence at the summit.
