Measuring only about the size of a thumb, the special pin worn on the attire of ASEAN leaders and dialogue partners at the 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings carries significance far beyond that of an ordinary accessory.
This special pin not only symbolizes the summit’s ceremony, held from October 26th to 28th at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, but also serves as a high-level security identifier and denotes the status of VIPs.
Chairman of the ASEAN Logistics Secretariat (SILA), Raja Saif, pointed out that the pin’s design reflects the spirit of ASEAN unity under Malaysia’s chairmanship and also facilitates the movement of leaders and distinguished guests throughout the summit.
“As VIPs require quick and smooth mobility, this pin also acts as a visible marker, allowing them to pass through security checkpoints without the need for scanning or biometric procedures.”
“Although the pin does not have a built-in electronic security chip, its design and color are enough for security personnel to distinguish the wearer’s identity category from a distance.”
He explained that the pin comes in three main colors: gold representing national leaders, silver for ministerial officials, and bronze for senior government officials.
“The design of the pin is inspired by the hibiscus, symbolizing Malaysia as the ASEAN rotating chair, while its ten-sided shape represents the ten member states of ASEAN. The pin also features the ASEAN official emblem and colors—blue, red, and yellow.”
“In comparison to the modern design of the 46th ASEAN Summit pin held in May this year, this pin carries a more traditional charm.”
Raja Saif added that the pin was designed by a local company under the Registered and Certified Logistics Subcommittee (JKKL), having received approval and selection by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar.
In addition, a special pin designed for the spouses of national leaders resembles the traditional Malay brooch (Kerongsang) and is gold in color, while ministerial spouses wear silver pins. Both designs were personally chosen by the Prime Minister’s wife, Dato’ Seri Wan Azizah.
“Each category of pin represents an honor. When they take the pin home, it will become a treasured memory of Malaysia as the ASEAN chair in 2025.”
It is worth mentioning that world leaders such as U.S. President Trump, Brazilian President Lula, and South African President Ramaphosa will also wear the pin symbolizing Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship.
As the 2025 ASEAN rotating chair, Malaysia is hosting the 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings under the theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability.” The summit will gather leaders of the ten ASEAN nations as well as major dialogue partner countries such as the United States, China, Japan, and India.
Raja Saif stated that to ensure the summit runs safely and smoothly, the organizers will implement the highest level of security measures. Therefore, everyone entering the meeting zones must wear a pass embedded with a security chip, ensuring that only accredited personnel can access restricted areas.
He said that in addition to displaying identity information via LED screens when swiping at entry gates, these passes are also equipped with invisible security marks that show up under ultraviolet light, complying with the standards of the Chief Government Security Officer’s Office.
“To date, over 16,000 people have registered to receive security passes, including members of national delegations, media and security personnel.”
Among them, the passes were produced by 50 staff members under JKKL, and to facilitate on-site identification, they are distinguished by different colored lanyards: blue for delegation members, orange for the secretariat, red for security personnel, and white for official media.
“Security is our top priority. To ensure all VIPs have a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience in Malaysia, only those wearing these passes are allowed into the venues.”
He also reminded everyone that if a pass is lost, the holder must immediately report to the mobile police post at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre to prevent misuse and ensure overall summit security.