ASEAN and AIPA Pledge Deeper Cooperation Toward ASEAN Community Vision 2045

Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN (Right) and H.E. Dr. Chem Widhya Secretary General of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA)

Jakarta, 8 January 2026 — The Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received a courtesy call from H.E. Dr. Chem Widhya, the newly appointed Secretary General of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, following Dr. Widhya’s assumption of office on 1 January 2026.

During the meeting, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn warmly congratulated Dr. Chem Widhya on his appointment and reaffirmed ASEAN’s strong commitment to further strengthening ASEAN–AIPA cooperation, underscoring the vital role of parliamentary engagement in supporting regional integration. Both sides emphasized the importance of close collaboration in advancing the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, as well as in promoting inclusive, people-centered, and sustainable regional cooperation.

Dr. Chem Widhya will serve as Secretary General of AIPA for the 2026–2028 term, marking a new chapter in enhancing institutional synergy between ASEAN and AIPA in pursuit of long-term peace, stability, and shared prosperity across the region.