KUALA LUMPUR: The world will now be able to see Asean and its many attractions through a brighter lens when the first ever Asean-focused travel channel begins this year.

Called “Go Asean”, the 24-hour channel will broadcast content exclusive to Asean, including promoting the region as a travel destination and a key economic driver.

The Malaysian-led initiative was launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak (pic) at the official opening of the 26th Asean Summit, here, on Monday.

“The channel provides multiple and far-reaching promotional platforms to showcase Asean as a globally competitive destination of leisure and commerce, supported by world-class infrastructure.

“Closer to home, Go Asean will also lead to a greater connected Asean, one that benefits and brings together our people as one, forging a people-centric Asean that is not only united, but one that also thrives,” said Najib.

He said the participation of all member nations was vital for the region’s potential as a key tourism and economic driver to be fully realised.

The channel, which will go live on Astro (Channel 737) in June, will source and broadcast content from all 10 Asean member nations, promoting the uniqueness that each has to offer to a worldwide audience.

“Providing multiple platforms to showcase the region’s strength and diversity, as well as our social, economic and infrastructural advances, Go Asean will be the blueprint for adventurous souls and the business-driven to put Asean on the top of their list,” said Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz in a statement.-thestar