Connecting ASEAN Nations Through Culture & People-to-People Diplomacy
On 23 October 2026, the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations (HUFO), in partnership with the Faculty of Oriental Studies (University of Social Sciences and Humanities, VNU-HCM) and the Vietnam – Southeast Asia Friendship Association (VAFA), convened the International Scientific Seminar: “Culture and People-to-People Diplomacy in the Process of Building an ASEAN Community: Vision to 2045”.
The seminar gathered esteemed diplomatic representatives across Southeast Asia, including Consul General Querobine D. Laccay of the Republic of the Philippines (ASEAN Chairmanship 2026), Consul General Firdauz Othman of Malaysia, as well as consular leaders from Singapore and Indonesia, alongside university leadership and international researchers.
Opening the seminar, HUFO Vice President Mr. Ho Xuan Lam affirmed that culture and people-to-people relations represent strategic pillars in cementing social solidarity and mutual trust across the ASEAN Community. Echoing this vision, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Hong Xuan, President of VAFA, remarked that sensory touchpoints—a cup of tea, a folk melody, or a handcrafted lantern—frequently unlock meaningful cross-border dialogues that formal diplomatic channels cannot replace.
The Floral Candle Bouquet: An Artisanal Gift for Singapore’s Delegation
At the conclusion of the seminar proceedings, Pu Aura was deeply honoured that its signature botanical floral candle centerpiece was chosen as the ceremonial token presented to the diplomatic representative of Singapore—the nation destined to hold an essential leadership role in the forthcoming ASEAN cycle.
Sculpted by artisan chandler La Mai Phuong at Pu Aura’s workshop in Nha Be, Ho Chi Minh City, the floral centerpiece blends:
- Sculptural Lotus & Peony Blooms: Individually cast candle blossoms in gentle blush rose and warm cream tones, symbolising peace, resilience, and harmonious regional growth.
- Preserved Botanical Integration: Delicate natural dried floras hand-arranged into a lifelike bouquet that remains fragrant and perpetual over extended display.
- Halal-Certified Formulation: Certified under MS 2200-1:2008 (certificate VNH-JAKIM.72) and completely free from animal tallow.
Engaging International Dignitaries at the Pu Aura Sensory Showcase
Throughout the seminar intermission, Pu Aura’s dedicated cultural display table welcomed delegates, academic speakers, and foreign diplomats to experience Vietnam’s emerging botanical fragrance craftsmanship:
Attendees praised the artistic refinement and delicate scent profiles, confirming that sustainable, verifiable craftsmanship can serve as a genuine bridge of empathy, friendship, and shared cultural pride across the ASEAN region.
Institutional & Corporate Gifting Specifications
Pu Aura provides bespoke OEM manufacturing for government ministries, multinational corporations, and regional trade bodies seeking verified Halal, high-end gifts:
Sculptural Candle Sets & Hampers
Minimum Order Quantity: 50 units for sculptural candles • 100 sets for complete gift boxes.
Custom silicone moulds engineered in 3 to 5 business days.
Hanging Wax Sachet Tablets
Minimum Order Quantity: 100 units with custom embossed emblems.
Melting point optimised at 62-65°C for tropical logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which diplomatic mission received Pu Aura's floral candle sculpture at the ASEAN 2045 seminar?
The bespoke floral sculptural candle bouquet was officially presented by the organising committee to the diplomatic delegation of Singapore, which holds a pivotal leadership role in the upcoming ASEAN chairmanship cycle.
What halal standard governs Pu Aura's diplomatic and institutional candle gifts?
All Pu Aura sculptural candles are certified under standard MS 2200-1:2008 for consumer goods and cosmetics by Vietnam National Halal (VNH), a JAKIM-recognised certification body, under certificate VNH-JAKIM.72 (valid to 27 July 2027).
Can ASEAN institutions and corporate clients order custom sculptural candles with bespoke moulds?
Yes, Pu Aura manufactures bespoke sculptural candles with custom 3D silicone moulds engineered within 3 to 5 business days, with production MOQ starting at 50 units for candles and 100 sets for complete gift boxes.