Spouses Of Leaders Play Key Role In Fostering Wider ASEAN Friendship - Dr Wan Azizah

By Siti Baaqiah Mamat

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 27 (Bernama) -- Spouses of regional and dialogue partner leaders play a unique and influential role in strengthening ties within the wider ASEAN family, said Prime Minister’s wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

Speaking at the Spouse Programme held in conjunction with the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, Dr Wan Azizah said spouses often act as ‘soft diplomats’, nurturing enduring friendships that complement the formal engagements of their partners.

“Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship theme, ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability,’ is truly reflected in today’s programme. Through culture, creativity and shared experiences, we celebrate how true connections are fostered not only in formal meetings but also through moments of joy and friendship.

“Together, we have built meaningful collaborations in education, culture and sustainable development. These partnerships are founded on friendship and a shared commitment to a peaceful, inclusive and sustainable future for all,” she said. 

Earlier, Dr Wan Azizah welcomed the spouses of heads of state and government at Carcosa Seri Negara including spouse of the President of South Korea, Kim Hea Kyung; spouse of the President of the Philippines, Louise Araneta-Marcos; spouse of the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Amanda Luxon and spouse of the Prime Minister of Canada, Diana Fox Carney. 

Also attended the programme were spouse of the Prime Minister of Laos, Vandara Siphandone; the spouse of the Prime Minister of Cambodia, Dr Pich Chanmony Hun Manet; the spouse of the Prime Minister of Singapore Loo Tze Lui; and the spouse of the Prime Minister of Thailand, Thananon Niramit. 

Also present were Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri and her deputy Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad.

During the programme, Dr Wan Azizah accompanied the guests on a guided tour of an exhibition held at Carcosa Seri Negara showcasing Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and long-standing commitment to conservation.

Among the exhibits were captivating miniature displays depicting the people and traditional cuisines of ASEAN, alongside models showcasing Malaysia’s Intangible Cultural Heritage including Mek Mulung, Silat, Mak Yong and Songket.

Following the exhibition, the guests were treated to the Malaysia Kebaya Showcase, featuring five traditional kebaya styles from across the country, including Kebaya Nyonya Penang, Kebaya Negeri Sembilan, Kebaya Kelantan, Kebaya Selangor and Kebaya Pahang.

Adding a regional flair, the ASEAN Shared Intangible Cultural Heritage segment unveiled five exquisite kebaya designs representing Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Singapore and Thailand. 

Each piece, crafted by renowned local designer Lim Yu Lin, was delicately embroidered with motifs and colours representing the unique identity of these five nations which are collectively seeking United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) recognition for the kebaya as an Intangible Cultural Heritage last year. 

The event also featured a live demonstration of beaded shoe embroidery by local artisan Ong Bee Hong, offering the guests a closer look at the intricate craftsmanship behind this traditional art form.

The spouses of regional and dialogue partner leaders later took part in a terrarium-making activity, guided by local curators, allowing them to bring home a symbolic creation of nature and creativity.

The programme concluded with a luncheon at Serai House, where the distinguished guests savoured Malaysian favourites such as keropok lekor, apam balik, satay, nasi kerabu, laksa Penang and bubur pulut hitam.

Meanwhile, Nancy said the Spouse Programme served as a meaningful celebration of culture, unity and friendship, reflecting Malaysia’s warmth, creativity and hospitality.

“They (the spouses) were very happy because they had the opportunity to participate in activities together and learn about Malaysia’s unique heritage, some of which share similarities with their own countries.

“This shows that we share common cultural roots, making ASEAN truly a peaceful and harmonious family,” she said.

-- BERNAMA