Cover image via Bernama (Facebook)
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
The spouses of the leaders of the ASEAN nations gathered for a special exchange event in Kuala Lumpur, held in conjunction with the 47th ASEAN Summit
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, welcomed the wives of heads of state from various countries at the heritage landmark, Carcosa Seri Negara, where she hosted a cultural tour and luncheon in their honour.
Speaking at the Spouses of the Heads of State and Government Programme, Wan Azizah highlighted the important role that the First Ladies play as "soft diplomats", nurturing friendships that complement their partners' formal engagements and strengthening ties within the wider ASEAN family.
"Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship theme, 'Inclusion and Sustainability', is truly reflected in today's programme. Through culture, creativity, and shared experiences, we celebrate how true connections are fostered, not only through formal meetings, but also through moments of joy and friendship," she said, as quoted by Bernama.
Among those in attendance were:
- Thananon Niramit, wife of Thailand Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul
- Dr Pich Chanmony, wife of Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet
- Diana Fox Carney, spouse of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney
- Kim Hea Kyung, wife of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung
- Louise Araneta-Marcos, wife of Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr
- Amanda Luxon, wife of New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon
- Vandara Siphandone, wife of Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone
- Loo Tze Lui, wife of Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong
During the event, Wan Azizah accompanied the First Ladies on a guided tour of an exhibition at Carcosa Seri Negara, which highlighted Malaysia's rich cultural heritage and conservation efforts
The showcase featured Malaysia's Intangible Cultural Heritage, including Mek Mulung, Makyung, silat, and songket, along with traditional kebaya designs from various states.
Guests were also treated to a live demonstration of the intricate art of beaded shoe embroidery by local artisan Ong Bee Hong, followed by a hands-on terrarium-making workshop.
The programme concluded with a luncheon featuring favourite Malaysian dishes such as keropok lekor, apam balik, satay, soto, nasi kerabu, Penang laksa, and bubur pulut hitam.
