ASEAN

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this evening met with the Ambassador of the Federative Republic of Brazil to ASEAN, H.E. Henrique Archanjo Ferraro, over a working dinner in Jakarta. Both sides exchanged views on ASEAN-Brazil relations and discussed preparations for Dr. Kao’s working visit to Brazil in August of this year.

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received Chairman of the Southeast Asia Fertilizer Association (SEAFA), Mr. Rahmad Pribadi, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. During the meeting, they discussed opportunities to strengthen collaboration between ASEAN and SEAFA to support regional food security, enhance fertilizer supply chain resilience, and promote sustainable agricultural development through closer public-private cooperation.

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this afternoon met with Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Assistant Minister for Immigration of Australia, the Hon. Matt Thistlethwaite MP, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. Both sides discussed ways to further strengthen the ASEAN-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including deepening economic and trade cooperation under the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement. They also exchanged views on exploring possible areas for enhanced cooperation in the digital economy, energy security and energy transition, sustainable agriculture and food security, the blue and green economies, and research, education, and people-to-people links.

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), H.E. San Lwin, met with H.E. Dr. Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State of Sustainability and the Environment and Senior Minister of State for Education of Singapore. They exchanged views on priorities under the Singapore’s 2027 ASCC Chairmanship, particularly on mitigating the impacts of climate change and environment protection. DSG San Lwin reaffirmed ASEAN Secretariat's support for Singapore’s ASEAN Chairmanship.

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), H.E. San Lwin, met with H.E. Masagos Zulkifli, Minister for Social and Family Development of Singapore and incoming Chair of the ASCC Council. They exchanged views on priorities under the Singapore’s 2027 ASCC Chairmanship. DSG San Lwin reaffirmed ASEAN Secretariat's support for Singapore’s ASEAN Chairmanship.

The 11th ASEAN Plus Three Junior Science Odyssey (APT JSO-11) was held on 6-10 July 2026 in Clark, Pampanga, Philippines, under the theme “Climate Action and Responsible e-novation for Sustainability (CAReS)”. Hosted by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) -Philippine Science High School (PSHS) System, the programme brought together 114 participants, comprising students, teachers, liaison officers, and representatives from the Board of Directors and Secretariat, to explore climate action, biodiversity conservation, earth and space sciences, and innovative solutions to regional challenges. Participants engaged in expert-led lectures, scientific challenges, innovation pitching, biodiversity learning, and cultural exchange activities. Young scientists also showcased their creativity through the Resilience Reels Competition and developed practical solutions to environmental issues through the Innovation Challenge, highlighting the role of youth in building sustainable and resilient communities. The programme also welcomed Malaysia's hosting of APT JSO-12 in 2027, reaffirming the shared commitment to nurturing future STEM leaders and advancing regional cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. Photo credit: DOST PSHS Philippines

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today participated in the recording of a special episode for the official podcast platform of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), AIPACAST: Amplifying the Voices of AIPA. In the upcoming episode, Dr. Kao will share his reflections on ASEAN's evolution and its enduring role in promoting peace, stability, and cooperation in the region, ahead of the 59th Anniversary of ASEAN, on 8 August 2026.

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today met with Chief Executive Officer of Temasek Foundation, Mr. Ng Boon Heong, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. During their meeting, they underscored the strong partnership between the ASEAN Secretariat and Temasek Foundation and explored opportunities to further enhance cooperation in promoting people-to-people connectivity, strengthening ASEAN identity, as well as advancing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.

ASEAN continues to make steady progress across the Sustainable Development Goals, with notable gains in poverty reduction, health outcomes, education access, and digital connectivity.

The ASEAN Artists Residency Programme (AARP) offers emerging artists a unique platform to develop their creative practice, engage with diverse cultures across ASEAN, and contribute to the region’s shared artistic heritage. For Myanmar artists, this is your chance to create meaningful work in a supportive environment while building connections with fellow creatives from the region. How to Apply: •Submit your CV, artwork proposal, and portfolio •Send to: aarp@asean.org •Deadline: 31 July 2026, 6:00 PM (GMT+7) Selected artists will receive a fully supported residency in Jakarta, access to a dedicated studio, and the opportunity to have their artwork included in the permanent collection of the ASEAN Gallery. This is your opportunity to showcase your creativity, build regional connections and amplify your artistic voice on the ASEAN stage! Learn more at: bit.ly/AARP-2026 #AARP2026 #ASEANArtistsResidency #MyanmarArtists #ASEANArts #OneASEANCommunity

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today met with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkmenistan, Ahmet Gurbanov, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The two sides discussed ways to foster closer cooperation between ASEAN and Turkmenistan.

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today had a meeting with Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to ASEAN, H.E. Wang Qing, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. Both sides took the opportunity to exchange views on ASEAN-China relations, including preparations for the upcoming ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with China and other Related Meetings, to be held in Manila, the Philippines; deliverables of ASEAN-China cooperation during the 5th anniversary of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership this year; as well as regional and international developments of mutual interests.

Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN for the ASEAN Political-Security Community, Dato’ Astanah Abdul Aziz, received a courtesy call from the Ambassador of the United States to ASEAN, Kevin Kim, at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat today. They exchanged views on advancing the ASEAN-United States Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and discussed preparations for the upcoming ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with the United States, which will be held in Manila, Philippines, later this month.

The ASCC Strategic Plan aims to achieve a healthy ASEAN populace through accessible and resilient healthcare systems. By strengthening healthcare infrastructure, enhancing regional cooperation, and expanding access to essential services, ASEAN is working to ensure that every individual can attain better health and well-being. Learn more about the ASCC Strategic Plan and explore how these policies are shaping a healthier ASEAN Community: bit.ly/ASCC_Strategic… #ASEAN #ASEANCommunity #ASCCStrategicPlan #ASCCPost2025 #JapanASEANIntegrationFund #JAIF #ACV2045

The 2026 UL Research Institutes’ ASEAN-U.S. Science Prize for Women is here! This annual award celebrates women scientists who are shaping the future of Southeast Asia through innovation and research. Applications are now open for the 2026 UL Research Institutes’ ASEAN-U.S. Science Prize for Women. This year’s theme, “AI for Advancing Inclusive and Resilient Healthcare in ASEAN,” celebrates women scientists driving innovative research and AI-powered solutions to improve healthcare accessibility, resilience, and outcomes across the region. Submit your application by July 31, 2026 through scienceprize4women.asean.org

Read the full remarks: asean.org/wp-content/upl…

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, on 10 July 2026, participated and delivered the Congratulatory Remarks during the Awarding Ceremony of the 2nd ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, under the theme "Building Inclusive STI Communities." Funded by the ASEAN-India Science and Technology Development Fund (AISTDF) and hosted by the Ministry of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation (MISTI) of Cambodia, in collaboration with the ASEAN Secretariat and the Department of Science and Technology (DST) of India, the three-day event brought together women scientists, researchers, innovators, and policymakers from across ASEAN and India. Building on the success of the inaugural conclave held in Singapore in 2024, this year's gathering strengthened regional cooperation in science, technology, and innovation, advancing the shared mission of driving inclusive STI growth that benefits both regions.

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today met with H.E. HEM Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology and Innovation of Cambodia, on the sidelines of the 2nd ASEAN–India Women Scientists Conclave in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Dr. Kao congratulated and expressed his appreciation to Cambodia for hosting the 2nd Conclave under the theme "Building Inclusive STI Communities," which brought together women scientists, researchers, and innovators from ASEAN Member States and India to advance regional collaboration in science, technology, and innovation. SG Dr. Kao reaffirmed the ASEAN Secretariat's commitment to working closely with Cambodia in advancing the ASEAN Plan of Action on STI (APASTI) 2026–2035, and to promoting the greater participation and leadership of women in science toward an inclusive, resilient, and innovation-driven ASEAN.

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received a courtesy call from Mr. Phoeurn Phally, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of VP.Start Technology Co., Ltd., a homegrown technology company, on the sidelines of the 2nd  ASEAN–India Women Scientists Conclave, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The discussion centred on innovation through technology and the journey from technology adoption to creation, highlighting the company's experience in developing homegrown solutions made in Cambodia for the wider ASEAN region. Dr. Kao commended VP.Start as an example of ASEAN's emerging technology enterprises, and underscored the importance of nurturing local innovation, deep-tech entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment in advancing the ASEAN Plan of Action on STI (APASTI) 2026–2035. SG Dr. Kao also encouraged closer collaboration among technology companies, research institutions, and governments across the region to translate innovation into inclusive and sustainable growth.