Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today received a new artwork at the ASEAN Gallery. Titled ‘The Beetle’s Journey,’ the artwork was created by Ms. Souphalak Phongsavath, an artist from Lao People’s Democratic Republic, during her residency in Osaka, Japan last month. The artwork embodies the ethos of hard work and environmental sustainability and now joins the ASEAN Gallery’s expanding global art collection featuring residency pieces from Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam. The ASEAN Artists Residency Programme is flagship initiative of ASEAN that showcases the region’s cultural diversity and commitment to promoting emerging artistic talents. Since its launch in 2018, the programme has provided talented artists with opportunities to reflect on ASEAN identity and enhance their craftmanship. Many of its alumnus have gone on to achieve notable success, exhibiting their works at renowned venues around the world. The programme is part of ASEAN’s outreach efforts at the World Expo 2025 and is supported by Thai Beverage Public Company Limited.