Call for Nominations: ASEAN Prize 2026

Deadline: 25-May-2026

Nominations for the ASEAN Prize 2026 are now open to recognize individuals and organizations contributing significantly to regional cooperation, community building, and ASEAN identity. The award includes a US$20,000 cash prize and a trophy, highlighting achievements in collaboration, inclusivity, and economic integration across ASEAN Member States. Nominations are accepted through National Focal Points from 3 March to 25 May 2026.

Overview of the ASEAN Prize

The ASEAN Prize is a prestigious award that celebrates exceptional contributions to the ASEAN Community. It recognizes efforts that:

• Advance collaboration among ASEAN Member States

• Strengthen ASEAN engagement with the global community

• Promote people-to-people connections within the region

• Support economic integration and shared regional standards

• Contribute to the broader goals of ASEAN Community building

Now in its ninth edition, the prize honors achievements that reinforce ASEAN identity, inclusivity, and a forward-looking, dynamic regional community.

Award Benefits

• Trophy Presentation: The winner receives a trophy at a major ASEAN ceremony under the Philippines’ Chairmanship

• Monetary Prize: US$20,000, presented by the Temasek Foundation, Singapore

• Recognition: International acknowledgment of contributions to regional development and cooperation

Eligibility and Nomination Process

Who Can Be Nominated

• Individuals or organizations contributing significantly to ASEAN Community goals

• Demonstrating outstanding collaboration, people-to-people engagement, or regional integration

Not eligible:

• Self-nominations

• Posthumous nominations

How to Nominate

1. Submit through National Focal Points: Each ASEAN Member State manages submissions

2. Complete Official Nomination Form: Include nominee details, achievements, and future initiatives

3. Provide Supporting Documents: Demonstrate tangible contributions to ASEAN development

4. Include Character Reference: Highlight the nominee’s impact and eligibility (encouraged but optional)

Nomination Period: 3 March – 25 May 2026

Judging Process

• Chaired by ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn

• Judging Committee: Current and former Secretaries-General of ASEAN

• Evaluation: Multiple assessment rounds to select the recipient of the 2026 award

Award Ceremony

• Event: Opening of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits

• Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Presentation: Trophy and recognition delivered by Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and the ASEAN Secretary-General

Historical Context

Since its launch in 2018, the ASEAN Prize has:

• Recognized 4 individuals and 4 organizations

• Highlighted diverse fields of expertise and contributions to ASEAN integration

• Reinforced the importance of collaboration, inclusivity, and regional identity

Why This Prize Matters

The ASEAN Prize:

• Encourages outstanding regional collaboration

• Promotes inclusive and sustainable community development

• Highlights exemplary efforts in economic, cultural, and social integration

• Strengthens ASEAN identity and international recognition of regional excellence

FAQs

1. Who is eligible for the ASEAN Prize 2026?
Individuals or organizations making significant contributions to ASEAN cooperation, integration, and community building.

2. Can nominees submit themselves?
No, self-nominations are not accepted.

3. What is the monetary value of the award?
US$20,000, presented by the Temasek Foundation of Singapore.

4. How are nominations submitted?
Through the National Focal Points of each ASEAN Member State.

5. When is the nomination period?
From 3 March to 25 May 2026.

6. Who selects the winner?
The judging committee, chaired by the ASEAN Secretary-General and including current and former Secretaries-General.

7. Where is the award ceremony held?
At the ASEAN Summit opening, in 2026 hosted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Conclusion

The ASEAN Prize 2026 continues to celebrate exceptional contributions that strengthen regional cooperation, community engagement, and ASEAN identity. By recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations, the prize reinforces the values of collaboration, inclusivity, and sustainable development across the ASEAN region, inspiring further innovation and partnership among Member States.

For more information, visit ASEAN.