DUBAI: Leaders of various business groups from countries belonging to the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) recently held a two-day festival as part of efforts to develop closer trade ties with the UAE.
The multicultural event, organized by the five countries representing the Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean), treated guests to a fun-filled weekend at The Rise at Dubai Creek Harbour.
“The ASEAN and UAE are doing a lot of trade. Hopefully, through events like this, we can attract more business,” said Fei Chin Kaw, Malaysian Business Council president.
“This is about all things ASEAN. Events like this allow us to differentiate ourselves. We want to show what makes us special and unique,” said Bobbie Carella, chairperson of the Philippine Business Council – Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
Abhishek Mathur, the event’s project director, said the festival is a perfect vehicle to “bridge the cultural gap” between ASEAN countries and the UAE, and for Emiratis to expand their cultural awareness.
The Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand, through their business councils in the UAE, earlier formed the ASEAN Business Councils Alliance (ABCA).
The two-day event showcased Asean-themed foods, fashion shows, arts and crafts workshops, films, games, live music, traditional dances, and spelling bees.
