The ASEAN appreciates Mekong Institute’s 25 years of dedication towards realizing this objective and hopes the prize will encourage and support their work going forwardJakarta (ANTARA) - The ASEAN Prize 2021 was bestowed on Mekong Institute in recognition of its contributions in promoting ASEAN awareness and bolstering regional cooperation towards sustainable development, the ASEAN Secretariat announced.
The announcement was made at the 38th and 39th ASEAN Summits, according to a release issued by the ASEAN Secretariat and received here on Friday.
The role of the ASEAN Prize in promoting public awareness on the core values and principles of ASEAN based on the ASEAN Charter was recognized by the ASEAN Leaders at the 38th and 39th ASEAN Summit, chaired by the Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah on October 26, 2021.
Related news: ASEAN+3: Widodo underlines three focuses to toughen health resilience
In the Chairman’s Statement issued, ASEAN leaders congratulated Mekong Institute, a research institute and community development centre based in Khon Kaen, Thailand, as recipient of the ASEAN Prize 2021, recognizing its work in promoting prosperous and harmonious sub-regional development and its contribution to a wider regional cooperation and integration, particularly in agricultural development and commercialization.
In his congratulatory remarks, Secretary-General of ASEAN Lim Jock Hoi acknowledged Mekong Institute’s aspirations of fostering sustainable development and efforts in creating pivotal strength and being a driving force for regional economic growth, especially for mainland ASEAN.
"Their key role in community development and capacity building, publication as well as research and training programmes have helped bridge the gap in the region and accelerate equitable growth towards an inclusive, cohesive, and prosperous ASEAN Community," Lim affirmed.
Related news: President urges ASEAN, Australia to continue building trust
"The ASEAN appreciates Mekong Institute’s 25 years of dedication towards realizing this objective and hopes the prize will encourage and support their work going forward," he stated.
Mekong Institute Executive Director Suriyan Vichitlekarn stated that the prize was received with great honor on behalf of those who have tirelessly advanced GMS development and cooperation for a stronger ASEAN.
He emphasized that the recognition strengthens Mekong Institute’s resolve to work even harder in empowering people, bridging partnerships, and advocating positive change, especially during these uncertain times.
"Mekong Institute remains a steadfast partner in helping people emerge safely from the pandemic, so they may thrive in the new normal, wherein new levels of growth, trust, well-being, and a deeper sense of belonging will endure for many years to come," he stated.
The ASEAN Prize is an annual regional premier award, administered by the ASEAN Secretariat, honoring individuals or organizations based in ASEAN that have demonstrated outstanding work, with significant contribution to community-building efforts.
The recipient will receive a trophy and a cash prize of US$20,000 sponsored by the Temasek Foundation of Singapore and Yayasan Hasanah of Malaysia.
Related news: Good potential for ASEAN-Korea partnership in green economy: Jokowi
Following the COVID-19 safety protocols, the 2021 award presentation will be conducted separately. The year 2021 marks the fourth edition of the ASEAN Prize.
Founded in 1996 and based in Khon Kaen, Thailand, Mekong Institute’s commitment to promoting ASEAN Community building has been continuously articulated through a range of capacity development programs, research studies, publications, and multi-institutional engagements.
The intergovernmental organization has become a guiding beacon in advancing regional cooperation and integration, particularly in responding to priority needs of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).
It implements cross-sectoral projects in agricultural development and commercialization, trade and investment facilitation, and sustainable energy and environment, thereby reflecting the immense support to the core tenets of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG) 2030 vision.
Related news: Aceh police seize 2.2 kg crystal meth from three suspects
Related news: Jokowi hopes health will be focus of ASEAN-India cooperation
Reporter: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2021
