 To boost awareness of ASEAN and of the cultures of ASEAN among women and children in the region, the ASEAN Secretariat (ASEC) Women’s Wing was officially launched today with a simple ceremony at the ASEAN Secretariat, Jakarta.
The ASEC Women’s Wing, a non-profit entity which comprises the female staff and wives of staff members of the ASEAN Secretariat, would reinforce the work of the ASEAN Secretariat, particularly in the area of public outreach.
“The ASEAN Secretariat, as the nerve centre of a people-oriented ASEAN, must reach out to the people of the region. Now, with this Women’s Wing, we can find a niche to make a difference, no matter how small,” said the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr Surin Pitsuwan at the launch.
Activities of the Women’s Wing would include student competitions on ASEAN subjects at school and university levels, an ASEAN student club and charity fashion shows, among others. The Wing also has plans to issue a monthly e-Newsletter, which will not only reach its members, but also a greater audience, such as the civil society organisations and the media.
The Patron of the Women’s Wing is Mrs Alisa Pitsuwan, while the President is Mrs Vennila Pushpanathan.
“We hope that the Women’s Wing can collaborate with local educational institutions and NGOs to promote ASEAN awareness as well as community building,” said Mrs Pushpanathan at the launch. |