Langkawi gears up to host ASEAN Summit 2025

Langkawi, Malaysia’s iconic holiday destination, is set to host the ASEAN Summit 2025 this January, drawing over 1,000 delegates to a series of high-level meetings. The summit, a cornerstone event for the 10-nation ASEAN bloc, will also feature representatives from China, South Korea, and Japan, enhancing its global significance.

The Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) is at the forefront of preparations, ensuring the island is ready to shine as both a venue for diplomacy and a showcase of Malaysia’s tourism and cultural allure.

Packed Summit Agenda: From Finance to Energy

The ASEAN Summit’s schedule is anchored by three key events, beginning with the ASEAN+3 Meeting (Financial Track) from January 14 to 15. This inaugural session will see economic policymakers from ASEAN nations and East Asia collaborate on financial strategies.

Following this, the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat will convene from January 18 to 19, setting the stage for discussions on regional stability and diplomatic ties. The summit will conclude with the Special Meeting of ASEAN Senior Officials on Energy, spanning January 21 to 23, aimed at advancing sustainable energy initiatives.

LADA Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Haslina Binti Abdul Hamid highlighted the island’s preparedness for the summit, stating: “LADA has a role to ensure and prepare any needs during the programme, settlement, and meetings that take place. We are coordinating with all agencies involved from the delegates’ arrival until their return.”

Launching Visit Kedah Year 2025

In conjunction with the ASEAN Summit, LADA has also kickstarted the Visit Kedah Year 2025 campaign, aimed at positioning the state as a premier tourist destination. The campaign features an ambitious calendar of 132 events, including arts, culture, sports, and geopark activities, to attract 3.5 million visitors by year-end.

“We want to ensure that Langkawi becomes the destination of choice for delegates, which is why we need to maintain the natural beauty of the island so that they can have a better experience compared to other tourist attractions,” said Dato’ Haslina during the launch.

Notable highlights of the campaign include the 21st Langkawi International Regatta from February 13 to 16 and the 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) from May 20 to 24.

RM2 Million Boost for Infrastructure and Experience

In preparation for the ASEAN Summit and the year-long tourism campaign, LADA has allocated RM2 million for landscape upgrades through the Langkawi Tourism City Municipal Council. This funding aims to enhance the island’s infrastructure, ensuring a seamless and visually appealing experience for international delegates and visitors alike.

“Cheerfulness, cleanliness, and celebration are integral to the ASEAN Meeting. Langkawi is not only an important place for this event but also a key attraction throughout the year,” Dato’ Haslina added.

With collaborative efforts from Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia Airports, and other agencies, Langkawi aims to solidify its reputation as a leading destination in the region, ensuring the ASEAN Summit 2025 serves as a platform to boost both diplomacy and tourism.