The Times Kuwait Report
The ASEAN diplomatic community in Kuwait marked a significant transition with the formal handover of the chairmanship of the ASEAN Committee in Kuwait (ACK) from the Republic of Indonesia to the Sultanate of Brunei Darussalam. The ceremony, held in a spirit of unity and continuity, underscored ASEAN’s collective commitment to strengthening cooperation, enhancing regional visibility, and deepening engagement with Kuwait.
Hosted on Thursday evening at the residence of the Indonesian Ambassador, the event brought together heads of diplomatic missions, representatives of ASEAN dialogue partners, and Secretary-General of the Asian Cooperation Dialogue, Ambassador H.E. Nasser Al-Mutairi. The gathering reflected the growing importance of ASEAN’s diplomatic presence in Kuwait and its expanding partnerships across sectors.
Indonesia reflects on an active and impactful tenure
In her keynote remarks, Indonesia’s Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Lena Maryana, described her country’s chairmanship—held from October 2025—as a period defined by collaboration, outreach, and community engagement. She expressed deep appreciation to fellow ASEAN ambassadors, working groups, and dialogue partners for their “unwavering support and active engagement,” noting that the success of the tenure was built on collective effort. Reflecting on key milestones, Ambassador Maryana highlighted a series of initiatives that strengthened ASEAN’s visibility and cooperation in Kuwait.
Among them were environmental programs conducted in partnership with UN-Habitat, including park clean-up and tree-planting activities at Khaitan Public Park, as well as beach-cleaning campaigns aimed at promoting sustainability and civic responsibility.
She also emphasized institutional outreach efforts, including joint engagements with the Kuwait News Agency and diplomatic meetings with Kuwaiti officials, which helped reinforce ASEAN’s presence at the governmental level.
Cultural diplomacy featured prominently during Indonesia’s term, most notably through the “ASEAN Winter Market,” which showcased the region’s rich traditions, crafts, and cuisines while fostering people-to-people connections with the local community.
Ambassador Maryana further pointed to growing cooperation in sports diplomacy, citing engagements with the Kuwait Badminton Federation as a step toward strengthening informal ties and youth interaction.
At the same time, she acknowledged that several planned initiatives—including youth creativity programs, an ASEAN badminton tournament, academic lectures, and community outreach activities—had to be postponed due to scheduling constraints, the holy month of Ramadan, and evolving regional circumstances.
“These initiatives remain meaningful and relevant,” she noted, expressing confidence that they would be carried forward under the incoming chairmanship.
Concluding her remarks, Ambassador Maryana conveyed pride in the achievements of Indonesia’s tenure and voiced strong confidence in Brunei Darussalam’s leadership.
“It gives me great pleasure to pass the baton,” she said, affirming Indonesia’s continued support and commitment to the success of the ASEAN Committee in Kuwait.
Brunei Darussalam pledges continuity and collective spirit
Taking over the chairmanship, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Kuwait, H.E. Haji Sulaini Haji Saeed, delivered remarks that combined appreciation, humility, and a forward-looking vision. He warmly commended Ambassador Maryana’s leadership, describing her tenure as “outstanding and effective,” and credited her efforts with strengthening both professional cooperation and personal bonds among ASEAN diplomats in Kuwait.
“Taking over from Ambassador Lena feels like following a masterclass,” he remarked, praising her ability to keep the “ASEAN spirit” vibrant not only through formal engagements but also through meaningful connections with Kuwait and within the diplomatic community.
Emphasizing his approach to leadership, Ambassador Haji Sulaini noted that he viewed the role not as one of authority, but of stewardship and hospitality.
“I see this not as leading, but as hosting our ASEAN family,” he said, underscoring the importance of solidarity among diplomats serving far from home.
He stressed that Brunei Darussalam’s chairmanship would focus on maintaining momentum while fostering a collegial and inclusive environment. This includes continuing established traditions such as cultural events, sports activities, and informal gatherings that strengthen camaraderie and cooperation.
Highlighting the enduring principles of the “ASEAN Way”—consultation, consensus, and mutual respect—he called for sustained collaboration among member states and deeper engagement with Kuwait.
He also expressed enthusiasm for expanding joint initiatives with dialogue partners and building on the strong foundation laid by Indonesia, while ensuring a “productive, smooth, and memorable” term for all members.
In a lighter note reflecting the camaraderie within the group, he encouraged continued interaction not only through formal programs but also through simple social moments—“whether it’s a food festival, a sports day, or even just sharing a coffee and conversation.”
Strengthening ASEAN’s role in Kuwait
The ceremony concluded with renewed commitments from both outgoing and incoming chairs to further enhance ASEAN cooperation in Kuwait. The ASEAN Committee in Kuwait continues to serve as a vital platform for diplomatic coordination, cultural exchange, and engagement with Kuwaiti institutions and society.
The transition to Brunei Darussalam’s leadership signals continuity in ASEAN’s collaborative approach, while opening a new chapter aimed at deepening partnerships and expanding the committee’s impact in the months ahead.
