ASEAN Intensifies Efforts To Align Cultural Preservation With Ecological Sustainability - Tiong

PETALING JAYA, Oct 7 (Bernama) -- ASEAN member states are intensifying efforts to align cultural preservation with ecological sustainability in building a more inclusive and people-centred regional community, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

Speaking at the welcoming dinner of the 34th ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting here tonight, he said the recent recognition of the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) Forest Park System as a UNESCO World Heritage Site reflected Malaysia’s commitment to harmonising culture, science and environmental preservation.

“This recognition is not just about biodiversity. It is a symbol of how nature, science and cultural stewardship converge, a philosophy that lies at the heart of ASCC’s vision for sustainable, inclusive development,” he said.

The dinner was also attended by ASCC Council Ministers, representatives from Timor-Leste, ASEAN secretary-general Dr Kao Kim Hourn, as well as ASEAN Senior Officials Committee for the ASCC (SOCA) leaders and delegations.

Tiong said Malaysia was honoured to host the 34th ASCC Council Meeting especially in Selangor, which he described a state that embodies the very spirit of ASEAN’s social and cultural dynamism.

“Selangor is more than just Malaysia’s economic powerhouse. It is a living mosaic of our multicultural identity, home to many traditional Malay kampungs, Chinese New Villages, Indian settlements and 74 Orang Asli communities,” he said, while noting it reflects ASCC’s vision of celebrating differences, fostering harmony and building an inclusive future.

Tiong added that the meeting serves as a platform not only to facilitate dialogue but also to inspire transformation across the region, particularly in formulating policies that benefit the people.

“As we deliberate on the strategic directions of ASCC, let us remember that what we decide here has real meaning for real people.

“Whether it is the future of green jobs, One Health, digital heritage or climate action, our discussions must always circle back to those we serve: the children in rural classrooms, the artists keeping oral traditions alive and the youths reimagining ASEAN in 2045,” he said.

Tiong said ASEAN’s unity extends beyond policy -- it is bound by empathy, connected not only through infrastructure but also through a shared identity, and advancing not just economically but also flourishing in spirit.

The two-day ASCC Council Meeting, which began today at the Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre, provides a platform for ASEAN member states to discuss key socio-cultural issues that shape the region.

Guided by the values of Malaysia MADANI with its emphasis on sustainability, inclusivity, and shared prosperity, the ASCC advances ASEAN’s people-centred agenda through regional projects, cultural exchanges, and international collaborations to build a stronger socio-cultural community.

-- BERNAMA