The 19th ASEAN and 9th ASEAN+3 Youth Cultural Forum concluded with a closing ceremony at the Bridex Banquet Hall in Kampong Jerudong yesterday.
The closing ceremony was officiated by Permanent Secretary (Higher Education) at the Ministry of Education Dr Haji Azman bin Ahmad.
Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) Assistant Vice-Chancellor of Global Affairs Dr Joyce Teo Siew Yean said over the past five days, UBD witnessed a true celebration of cultural exchanges, friendship and learning.
“The young participants have not only showcased their incredible talents but have also immersed themselves in a journey of discovery and growth that will stay with them for a lifetime,” she said.
Around 142 delegates from 20 ASEAN University Network (AUN) institutions and seven partners from Japan, South Korea and China also participated in a collaborative performance during the ceremony, showcasing diversity and commonalities in their cultural heritage.
UBD Vice-Chancellor Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle held a symbolic handover presentation to Dean of Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts at the Chulalongkorn University Professor Dr Kumkom Pornprasit. The Thai institution will be hosting the 20th ASEAN and 10th ASEAN+3 Youth Cultural Forum 2025.
During the six-day event, delegates took part in cross-cultural communication workshops, leadership and artistic skill development in areas such as Brunei martial arts, theatre and traditional music, as well as sessions on language diversity.
They also participated in academic lectures, campus tours, an ASEAN Art and Cultural Bazaar and excursions to various sites in the country, including Kampong Ayer, Homestay Alai Gayah Anak Pulau (HAGAP), Mendaram Long House and Peliunan Park.
The 9th AUN on Culture and the Arts Annual Meeting also took place yesterday. – Lyna Mohamad
