As we commemorate a significant milestone in our journey towards fostering cooperation and diversity in Southeast Asia, it is with enormous pride that we introduce the inaugural print edition of Diplomatic Network (Asia).

For the past year, DNA has served as a vital online platform, connecting diplomats, policymakers, and thought leaders across the region.

DNA both concluded its first year as a media-networking platform, as well celebrated the launch of its inaugural print version by hosting its official launch event lat Friday. The event took place at Southside on Siloso Road, Sentosa, with an impressively illuminated backdrop of Singapore’s nocturnal skyline.

Diverse array of attendees

The launch was attended by more than 100 guests, both from the diplomatic and business communities at the Southeast Asian city state.

Numerous foreign diplomatic missions were represented at the party. Heads of missions, such as His Excellency Agustin Garcia-Lopez Loaeza, the Mexican ambassador and dean of the diplomatic corps in Singapore, and HE Jean de Dieu Uwihanganye, the high commissioner of Rwanda and dean of the African continent, among others, were present. Additionally, diplomats from various embassies, including Estonia, Peru, India, and South Africa, were in attendance.

DNA members present included the European, Latin American and South African Chambers of Commerce, Aaron Wan, Noel Ng, Heny Chen, Oaks Legal LLC, EU Holidays, Performance Motors, MM2, Steward’s Solution, South African Wine Cellar, Lawry’s the Prime Rib Singapore, Pistachio Eastern & Mediterranean Grill, and the Intercontinental, Four Seasons, and Pan Pacific hotels.

Special guests included local celebrities such as Aileen Tan from MediaCorp, as well as the producers of the nominated film Crazy Rich Asians, Infinite Studios’ Mike Wiluan and Freddie Yeo. Music icon Simon Napier-Bell also attended.

Speeches and thanks

Blessings were delivered by Reverend Ben Fong, pastor of Barker Road Methodist Church. The welcome speech was given by DNA’s director, Tay Wan Leng, followed by words from Costa Rican ambassador, HE Victor Rojas, on behalf of the foreign diplomatic corps. Han, from EU Holidays spoke on behalf of DNA’s members. Closing remarks were done by the platform’s senior editorial advisor, R. Chiari.

DNA would like to take this opportunity to thank all the sponsors of this event: EU Holidays, Form Arts, Hats of Cain, Intercontinental Singapore, Lawry’s the Prime Rib Singapore, Legacy Seafood, Pan Pacific Singapore, Pistachio Middle Eastern & Mediterranean Grill, Shinano, SMH Food Group, South African Wine Cellar, Steward’s Solution, and Tasco. Without their devoted support, the evening wouldn’t have been the same.

Finally, we at DNA hope that all the guests enjoyed the moment and look forward to seeing you again next year.