Bangkok, Thailand – Young leaders from across ASEAN and Japan arrived in Thailand on 11 February as the training vessel Nippon Maru docked at Bangkok Port for the 49th Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program.
A total of 181 young leaders representing Brunei, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Timor-Leste, Vietnam, Japan, and Thailand arrived aboard the vessel. Upon disembarkation, delegates proudly presented their national flags in a symbolic display of unity before attending a formal welcome ceremony organized by the Department of Children and Youth under the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security.
Strengthening ASEAN-Japan Youth Ties
The Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program, now in its 49th edition, continues to serve as a longstanding platform for cross-cultural exchange and regional cooperation. Designed to nurture leadership, mutual understanding, and long-term networks among young people, the initiative brings together emerging leaders for dialogue and collaborative activities.
Participants engage in discussions and workshops covering social development, economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and educational collaboration, helping to deepen connections between ASEAN member states and Japan.
Official Reception at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center
In the evening, a formal reception was held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The event was presided over by Mr. Kitti Intharakul, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security.
Ambassadors from ASEAN countries and Japan attended the ceremony, along with senior representatives from the public and private sectors. Among the attendees was Ms. Sudruetai Lertkasem, Director-General of the Government Public Relations Department.
The gathering underscored Thailand’s continued commitment to regional youth engagement and multilateral cooperation.
Regional Journey of Nippon Maru
The Nippon Maru set sail from Japan before making port calls in Singapore and Thailand. The Bangkok stop runs from 11 to 17 February, forming part of the vessel’s regional itinerary.
Since its inception, the program has played a vital role in strengthening ASEAN-Japan relations at the people-to-people level. By connecting young leaders early in their careers, the initiative aims to build a durable regional network that supports cooperation for years to come.
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