New ASEAN Anthem Sung

VIVAnews - The enactment of the ASEAN Charter was not the only memorable event at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting that took place in Jakarta, Monday, Dec. 12.

Aside from the entry into force of the basic principles for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the ASEAN Charter, "The ASEAN Way," which has officially become ASEAN's anthem, was sung at the Foreign Ministers meeting at the ASEAN Secretariat hall in Jakarta, Dec 15.

"We dare to dream we care to share. Together for ASEAN. We dare to dream we care to share. For it's the way of ASEAN."

Such was part of the lyrics to the new anthem. It was the first time that the new ASEAN anthem was sung in an official event. The compelling composition could arouse the spirit of brotherhood amidst ASEAN countries through its lyrics and arrangement.

In fact, to officially close the ceremony, a choir of Padjadjaran University, Bandung lined the stage and sung "The ASEAN Way" solemnly and melodiously. The hymn is the newest and first official ASEAN anthem.

"The ASEAN Way" is a terrific piece selected from 99 songs registered to participate in ASEAN Anthem contest. The selection of the ASEAN anthem started in October 2008 in Thailand, with composers from 10 ASEAN countries joining the contest. On 20 November 2008, "The ASEAN Way," composed by Thai composers, was officially chosen as the ASEAN Anthem.

Ten composers from ten ASEAN countries were invited as juries to elect 10 out of 99 songs. In making the selection, members of the jury came from various countries such as Japan, China and Australia participated. Indonesian composer Purwacaraka was also part of the jury. 

Purwacaraka said, "Of the many songs, that [chosen anthem] is the best."

He went on to say, "An anthem must be carefully chosen because it will be long-lasting." Purwacaraka explained that "The ASEAN Way" represents the spirit of ASEAN Charter: "One Vision, One Identity, One Community."

According to Purwacaraka, the anthem is not yet perfect. "The range is too wide," he said.

The musical arrangement of "The ASEAN Way" was done by two Thai musicians Kittikhun Sodprasert and Sampaw Triudom. The lyric was written by Payom Valaiphatchra. Kittikhun arranged the "Spirit of Asia," sung at the opening of the 1999 ASEAN Games.

Translated by: Bonardo Maulana Wahono