Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, delivered a pre-recorded video message at the New Frontier in the Care Economy Conference (CARECON) 2025, held in Kuala Lumpur, on 4-6 November 2025. Under the theme “Exploring Models of Sustainable, Inclusive, Responsive, and Equitable Care for ASEAN and the Region” the conference addressed the crucial role of the care economy in advancing sustainable and inclusive growth, promoting gender equality, and strengthening social protection systems across ASEAN. Organised by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development of Malaysia, with the support of Australia and in collaboration with The Asia Foundation, La Trobe University, UNDP, ESCAP, UN Women, UNFPA, UNICEF, and Kiddocare, the event provided a platform for ASEAN Member States and partners to exchange innovative practices and foster collaboration toward developing sustainable and inclusive care systems. The discussions reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to deepening regional cooperation and advancing inclusive and equitable development in line with ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future and its Strategic Plans.