The 58th ASEAN Day Networking Event was held on 21 August 2025 at the Supper Room, Melbourne Town Hall, attended by diplomats, business leaders, and members of Melbourne’s ASEAN communities.
Organised by the City of Melbourne in partnership with the Philippine Consulate General, the Consulate General of Malaysia, and the Consulate General of Indonesia, the evening recognised ASEAN’s role in strengthening regional cooperation while connecting with Australia.
Celebrating ASEAN Day
ASEAN Day, observed annually on 8 August, commemorates the organisation’s founding in 1967 through the Bangkok Declaration. This year’s theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, under Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, shaped the forum’s focus on economic collaboration and opportunities in the green economy.
Voices from the Region
Formalities began with remarks from Cr Roshena Campbell, Deputy Lord Mayor of Melbourne, followed by Ms. Azimatul Masriyah Aziz Jamaludin, Trade Commissioner of the Consulate General of Malaysia. After a brief photo session, the evening moved into a discussion moderated by Ms. Laura Burke of Global Victoria, with panelists Mr. Jason Yeap OAM, Ms. Janeca Gross, and Professor Edward Buckingham, who explored future partnerships between Melbourne and Southeast Asia.
The conversation centred on sustainability, diaspora engagement, and economic opportunities that can shape stronger ties between Australia and ASEAN nations.
Networking and Community Links
Following the discussion, guests shared a networking session over light refreshments, offering space for exchange between community representatives, government officials, and business leaders.
ASEAN at a Glance
ASEAN was established on 8 August 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand, by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Brunei Darussalam joined in 1984, followed by Viet Nam (1995), Lao PDR and Myanmar (1997), and Cambodia (1999), completing today’s ten Member States.
Malaysia, as the current Chair, has set “Inclusivity and Sustainability” as the guiding theme, reflecting the region’s shared aspiration for peace, prosperity, and progress.
More photos available here.
