Kuala Lumpur Unveils Floral Tunnel for 46th ASEAN Summit
Kuala Lumpur, The Gulf Observer: A stunning 320-meter floral tunnel has been constructed at the patio of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) to warmly welcome leaders attending the 46th ASEAN Summit, which will be held from May 26 to 27. The tunnel, serving as the main route for the arrival of ASEAN leaders, as well as dignitaries from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and China, is a striking symbol of Malaysia’s hospitality.
Raja Saifful Ridzuwan Raja Kamaruddin, Chief of the ASEAN Central Logistics Secretariat, highlighted that the floral tunnel will provide a ceremonial passageway for the visiting leaders. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will personally greet each leader at a flower garden located at the tunnel’s midpoint, offering a symbolic “pit stop” with the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in the background.
“The official arrival of ASEAN leaders will take place on May 26, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim extending a formal welcome. Additional arrivals will occur on May 27, first for heads of state and government from the GCC, followed by the Premier of China, Li Qiang, in the afternoon,” Raja Saifful Ridzuwan explained.
Designed with a vibrant palette of red, blue, yellow, and white, the floral tunnel celebrates unity, harmony, and solidarity – core values central to Asean cooperation. The display incorporates real hibiscus flowers, Malaysia’s national flower, symbolizing the country’s role as Asean Chair for 2025.
The tunnel’s design draws inspiration from Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and ASEAN’s theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” The predominant colours reflect those found in the ASEAN logo, representing the diverse member states, while the greenery evokes the sustainability theme and the lush environment of the KLCC Park.
Despite the tunnel’s quick construction timeline of just seven days, the planning process spanned nearly three months, with the involvement of around 150 contractors. These professionals worked on structural foundations, landscaping, and construction, ensuring the completion of this landmark feature.
To ensure the safety and smooth coordination of the event, security measures will be in place around the KLCC area from May 25 to 27. Over 2,000 policemen, including more than 1,000 assigned specifically to the KLCC area and surrounding hotels, will ensure a secure environment for the leaders and their delegations.
The 46th ASEAN Summit will bring together leaders from across the region to discuss key issues and chart the future direction of ASEAN, with the event also hosting the 2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit and the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, further enhancing ASEAN’s international partnerships.
