ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn speaks at a ceremony marking the organization’s 58th anniversary, Jakarta, Indonesia, August 8, 2025. (Photo: VOV in Indonesia)

Speaking at the ceremony, Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn emphasized that ASEAN is not just a regional organization but a family of nations with a shared belief and vision for a better future.

"Over the past year, the ASEAN spirit has been clearly demonstrated, from working together to evacuate ASEAN citizens from conflict areas to coordinated responses undertaken collectively by member states. These actions are not just for the sake of doing good, but a show of solidarity to realize shared goals and give ASEAN lasting meaning and purpose," he said. 

Secretary-General Kao noted that inclusiveness means ensuring that every nation, every community, and every individual has a voice and shares concerns together. “It also means that development will reach the most remote villages, where women and children are truly empowered, and no one is left behind in the digital economy.”