ASEAN Records has officially expanded its recognition platform beyond Southeast Asia with the landmark launch of Asia Records, establishing a continental-scale institution dedicated to honouring Asia’s greatest achievements across innovation, enterprise, culture, tourism and global impact.
This historic expansion was unveiled during the ASEAN Records Gala Night, held in conjunction with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship and the upcoming 47th ASEAN Summit in October 2025— a pivotal moment as Malaysia leads the region on the global stage.
Founded on the principle of recognizing measurable excellence, ASEAN Records and Asia Records uphold strict verification, credibility, and global governance standards -ensuring every recognition is factual, verifiable, and internationally respected.
ASEAN Records Gala Night Marks a Major Milestone for the Institution
In a single evening, ASEAN Records presented 48 newly certified records, officially announced 8 upcoming record attempts, and formally acknowledged 108 previously certified record holders - bringing together an impressive total of 138 ASEAN Record Holders and over 550 distinguished guests in attendance.
This marks the largest physical gathering ever organized under ASEAN Records to date, reflecting the institution’s significant momentum and growing regional influence. As of this date, ASEAN Records has officially surpassed 200 certified records across Southeast Asia, less than one year since its official launch on 14th November 2024.
From ASEAN to Asia — Honoring Excellence at the Regional Level, Now Elevated to a Continental Stage
Asia Records stands as the main highlight of the evening — symbolizing a bold step beyond Southeast Asia to unite the continent under a shared standard of excellence and recognition.
Asia Records aims to become a professional, internationally governed record platform, representing the highest achievements across Asia, and is the official owner of www.asiarecords.com — a domain first secured in 2013.
It celebrates extraordinary individuals, organizations, and innovations that define Asia’s spirit of progress — bridging culture, creativity, and commerce on the world stage.
The Launch Ceremony
The official launch ceremony was led by the Guest of Honor, Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor) of Melaka, Malaysia, together with ASEAN Records and Asia Records Headquarters, represented by Managing Director Gillian Ooi and Executive Director Eldrick Koh.
They were joined by YBrs. Encik Chua Choon Hwa, Deputy Secretary General (Tourism), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), representing YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia.
Side Launches — ASEAN Tourism Records and Asia Tourism Records
The event also marked the side launches of two new tourism-based record categories:
ASEAN Tourism Records — officially endorsed by ASEANTA (ASEAN Tourism Association), celebrating the region’s cultural landmarks, destinations, and achievements in sustainable tourism.
Asia Tourism Records — a continental expansion that recognises Asia’s most iconic destinations, experiences, and heritage institutions under the broader Asia Records umbrella.
Both platforms strengthen ASEAN and Asia’s position as global tourism and cultural powerhouses, aligning with the region’s shared commitment to sustainable growth and cross-cultural appreciation.
ASEAN Street Cultural Showcase
The event also featured the ASEAN Street Exhibition, a cultural and tourism showcase representing all 10 ASEAN member nations, along with Timor-Leste — the upcoming 11th member of ASEAN.
The ASEAN Street displayed the diverse tourism attractions, cultural heritage, and iconic identities of each participating nation, offering guests an immersive experience of the region’s unity, creativity, and shared identity under the ASEAN spirit.
Visit Malaysia 2026 Featured Segment
A special highlight of the evening featured a preview of Visit Malaysia 2026, introducing its official mascots — Wira (male) and Manja (female), both Malayan sun bears representing Malaysia’s commitment to wildlife protection and conservation.
A total of 100 mascots (50 pairs) made a symbolic appearance during the gala, showcasing the nation’s warmth, diversity, and readiness to welcome the world in 2026.
One of the Major Highlights of the Evening
The Guest of Honor for the evening, Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam,Yang di-Pertua Negeri (Governor) of Melaka, Malaysia, was officially recognised in ASEAN Records for achieving the: First and Only Sitting State Governor in ASEAN to Receive a National Sports Leadership Award (Conferred Anugerah Tokoh Sukan Negara on 13 May 2024, presented by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Malaysia.)
The moment drew a standing ovation and marked a historic recognition of leadership excellence at the highest national level.
Another Historic Achievement of the Evening
Internationally acclaimed Malaysian illusionists Mark and Pinky made history with a successful breakthrough of the World Record for: 30 Costumes Change Illusions in One Minute (World Record Achievement) Presented LIVE at the ASEAN Records Gala Night on 22 October 2025, and officially certified by Asia Records.
Their performance amazed the audience and marked a proud milestone for Malaysia and Asia, now officially honored under Asia Records.
Defining History for ASEAN and Asia
This is definitely the official record of ASEAN and Asia’s excellence. We don’t just keep records but we define history for ASEAN and Asia.
ASEAN Records [www.aseanrecords.com] (http://www.aseanrecords.com)
Asia Records [www.asiarecords.com] (http://www.asiarecords.com)
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