The Malaysian government spent approximately RM12 million to host the 46th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) General Assembly, which will be held from September 16 to 22 at the Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre.
According to Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, the total expenditure covers the cost of accommodation, logistics, food, transportation and venue rental for all delegations from ASEAN member countries.
As the host, Malaysia will cover the costs for the heads of delegations, their spouses as well as parliamentarians and secretaries from 10 member countries.
The programme also involves several side events including the AIPA Women's Parliamentary Meeting in Kuching and the AIPA Young Parliamentarians' Meeting in Klang.
Azalina explained that all expenditure was carried out in accordance with government financial procedures and benefited Malaysia's image and diplomatic relations at the regional level.
The conference, themed “Parliament at the Frontline for Inclusive Growth and a Sustainable ASEAN”, also involved 19 observer countries and five development partners.
A total of 42 resolutions were agreed upon in six standing committees, covering political, economic, social and regional cooperation issues.
He stressed that the outcome of these discussions is important to strengthen the role of parliament in shaping inclusive and sustainable policies in the ASEAN region.
