Bandar Seri Begawan - The Asean Corner was launched yesterday at Brunei Museums by the Chairman of Brunei Darussalam Asean COCI National Committee, Dato Paduka Hj Mahmud Bakyr, as one of its projects, that was born from the 8th Asean Sub-Committee on Culture and Information last year in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
The launching ceremony began with a recital of the al-Fatihah and doa selamat, followed by a welcoming speech from the Acting Director of Museums, Bantong Antaran. He said it was agreed that commemorative exhibitions be organised at national museums in Asean countries with US$3,000 especially allocated for this project to mark the 40th anniversary of Asean`s establishment and the Brunei Museums Department has been entrusted to be the coordinator for the Sultanate.
The Asean Corner showcases selected artifacts that best represent or symbolise the identity and various cultures of each nation in the form of narratives, photos or member countries` products. The exhibits will also be changed every six months, subject to their suitability.
Among the programme`s objectives are to educate youths on the formation of Asean, as well as its aims and functions, in addition to strengthening relationships.
In conclusion, he also noted that the project would not have been a success without the cooperation and contributions from relevant parties and he expressed his appreciation to all, including embassies and high commissions.
After the striking of the gong by the chief guest, there was a tour of the exhibition with briefings delivered by Archaeologist Curator Pg Dr Karim Pg Osman.
Source: www.brudirect.com (16 November 2007)
