The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr Kao Kim Hourn, convened a year-end luncheon for the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN (CPR) at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta on 9 December, following the formal handover of ASEAN’s Chairmanship from Malaysia to the Philippines.
The luncheon provided an opportunity for ASEAN’s Permanent Representatives to reflect on the achievements under Malaysia’s leadership in 2025 and to discuss preparations for the Philippines’ upcoming Chairmanship in 2026.
Dr Kao highlighted the importance of continuity and collaboration, stressing that the bloc must maintain momentum to deliver on key priorities in the year ahead.
The Chairmanship handover ceremony earlier in the day marked a significant transition, with Malaysia’s Ambassador to ASEAN, Sarah Al Bakri Devadason, formally passing responsibilities to Ambassador Evangeline Ong Jimenez-Ducrocq of the Philippines.
The symbolic transfer followed Malaysia’s stewardship during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim handed a ceremonial gavel to Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Malaysia’s tenure was noted for advancing regional cooperation, including progress on economic integration and strengthening ASEAN’s external partnerships.
The Philippines, set to assume the Chairmanship on 1 January 2026, is expected to prioritise inclusivity, resilience, and digital transformation, aligning with ASEAN’s long-term community-building goals.
Dr Kao’s luncheon remarks underscored ASEAN’s collective responsibility to ensure smooth transitions between chairmanships. He praised Malaysia’s contributions and expressed confidence in the Philippines’ ability to guide ASEAN through the next phase of its agenda.
The Permanent Representatives reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Chair and Secretariat in delivering tangible outcomes for the region.
Observers note that ASEAN’s rotating chairmanship system is designed to balance leadership among member states, ensuring that each nation contributes to shaping the bloc’s direction.
The luncheon served as both a celebration of Malaysia’s achievements and a forward-looking dialogue on the Philippines’ priorities.
As ASEAN prepares for 2026, the Secretariat’s role in facilitating coordination and sustaining momentum remains crucial.
The luncheon highlighted the human dimension of diplomacy, reinforcing bonds among representatives while setting the stage for another year of regional cooperation.
Sources: ASEAN Secretariat News
