The 49th Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP) officially opened on January 16 in Tokyo, Japan, bringing together over 180 youth delegates and national leaders from 10 ASEAN countries and Japan.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, organizers reaffirmed SSEAYP as one of the longest-standing and most iconic youth exchange initiatives in the region. For more than five decades, the program has been jointly maintained by the Government of Japan and ASEAN member states, fostering mutual understanding, people-to-people exchange, and responsible global citizenship among youth.

SSEAYP 49 continues to emphasize the pivotal role of young people in addressing shared regional and global challenges through open dialogue, cooperation, and cultural respect.

A warm diplomatic welcome from the Japanese Prime Minister

Immediately following the opening ceremony, the Japanese Government hosted a formal courtesy meeting between Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae and the National Leaders (NL), Youth Leaders (YL), and Assistant Youth Leaders (AYL) of the participating delegations.

Held in a warm and respectful atmosphere, the meeting underscored Japan’s continued support for SSEAYP and its belief in the younger generation as key agents in ASEAN–Japan collaboration.

In her remarks, Prime Minister Takaichi extended a heartfelt welcome to all delegates. She stressed that SSEAYP is a cornerstone of people-to-people ties and a unique platform for nurturing young leaders with global perspectives, cultural sensitivity, and a strong sense of civic responsibility.

She encouraged participants to engage in open dialogue, active collaboration, and meaningful contributions to peace, regional stability, and sustainable development.

Vietnam’s delegation: legacy and leadership

Leading Vietnam’s delegation this year is Dr. Nguyen Hai Van Hien, who herself was a youth delegate in SSEAYP 2006. Now a PhD in Urban and Regional Planning, she returns in the role of National Leader, marking a full-circle moment in her personal and professional journey.

Prime Minister Takaichi expressed her delight at seeing familiar faces, including Dr. Hien and Philippines National Leader John Maraguinot - both alumni of the same SSEAYP year. Their return reflects the enduring spirit and multi-generational legacy of the SSEAYP network.

Dr. Hien’s leadership is expected to guide the Vietnamese team to play an active and positive role throughout the program, both in dialogue sessions and cultural exchange.

Hoang Linh