T

he diversity of the 10 Southeast Asian countries grouped in ASEAN was clearly visible during a recent event to commemorate the 49th anniversary of the regional grouping.

The one-day event included music and cultural performances and a food bazaar of traditional food from the 10 ASEAN countries and beyond at the ASEAN Secretariat in South Jakarta.

 “New Zealand has been a dialogue partner with ASEAN countries for 40 years. It’s a very special relationship and they invited us,” said New Zealand Ambassador to ASEAN Stephanie Lee, who said she was very fond of cooking.

 The crowd enjoying the ASEAN Day event held on Aug. 15 at the Hibiscus Hall included diverse communities and nationalities, ambassadors and students,

 Proceeds from the bazaar’s sales went to charity.

 AKP Mochtan, ASEAN’s deputy secretary general for community and corporate affairs, opened the event and welcomed every visitor.

The event showcased contemporary and traditional arts

One performer was the HajarBleh Big Band with students from the Pilar Indonesia School combining the band’s instruments with angklung from West Java and Minang gongs, or talempong, in their performance.

After some quizzes for kids and a discussion, the event came to its climax.

The ASEAN Foundation’s youth performed stunning traditional dances and a medley puppetry performance from the 10 ASEAN countries.

A presentation from the ASEAN Center for Energy illustrated its promotion of cleaner and renewable energy. The presentation was insightful and fun, even for the elementary students as it included an interactive quiz with prizes.

 “It is wonderful and fun. So many people, so many different countries representing their cultures. And of course, delicious food.” Sarah Bernier said as she offered Canadian food to visitors. Bernier is counselor and trade commissioner for Canada to ASEAN.

The writer is an intern at The Jakarta Post.