Langkawi: Southeast Asia's Jewel Welcomes ASEAN Diplomats

By Massita Ahmad

LANGKAWI, Jan 16 (Bernama) -- As Flight MH1432 prepared to touch down at Langkawi International Airport on Wednesday (Jan 15), the announcement over the intercom served as a poetic prelude to the wonders awaiting its passengers.

Among the travellers were a significant number of government officials, identifiable by the emblems on their shirts, hinting at the importance of their visit.

Their destination: the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM), a gathering of regional leaders committed to fostering dialogue and cooperation.

"Welcome to naturally Langkawi," the cabin crew’s voice resonated, echoing the essence of this breathtaking destination.

“Langkawi is a treasure trove of rugged rock formations, pristine rain forests, beautiful white sandy beaches, azure seas and spectacular sunsets.

“This archipelago of 99 naturally wonderful islands is rich with culture and steeped in legends and folklore. A preferred destination by travellers the world over, Langkawi is also Southeast Asia’s first Geopark,” the crew went on.

The writer was informed that the morning shift flight on the Boeing aircraft was fully booked, making it difficult to change her window seat to an aisle seat.

“We wish you a pleasant stay in Langkawi and thank you for helping us look after our naturally lovely island,” said the crew, a “call” to stewardship fitting for leaders tasked with shaping the region's future.

The ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ (AMM) Retreat will be held from Jan 18-19, 2025 in Langkawi.

The AMM Retreat is the first scheduled ASEAN meeting of the year.

Malaysia is the Chair of ASEAN in 2025.

-- BERNAMA