Malaysia officially handed over the ASEAN Helsinki Committee (AHC) Chairmanship to the Philippines in a heartfelt ceremony, highlighting 2024 achievements and setting the stage for continued collaboration in 2025. The event celebrated the ASEAN spirit of unity and partnership in Finland, fostering progress in a number of mutual interest topic areas such as green technology, education, investment, media, and conflict mediation, to name a few.
Charge d'Affaires of Malaysia Ariff Ali had also briefed on Malaysia's Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025, introducing the theme "Inclusivity and Sustainability", and expressed Malaysia's commitment to the new Chairman to drive ASEAN's agenda further here in Finland.
The meeting concluded with a potluck lunch showcasing the rich diversity of ASEAN cuisine, with culinary treasures from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam, creating a feast that reflected our shared heritage and camaraderie.
Congratulations to the Philippines as the new AHC Chair—we look forward to continuing the important work together.
