SSEAYP started in January 1974 based on Joint Statements issued between Japan and the five ASEAN countries, namely, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. Brunei Darussalam joined in 1985. Vietnam participated in the programme in 1996 while Laos and Myanmar participated in 1998. Cambodia joined the programme in 2000.

The aim of SSEAYP is to foster friendship and greater understanding among youths from ASEAN and Japan. It also seeks to broaden their international outlook.

A series of activities are lined up for the selected participants. The programme during voyages includes discussions on social and youth matters, cultural introductions, sports, recreation and club activities. Activities at each port-of-call include interaction with the local youths, courtesy calls on dignitaries and institutional visits, as well as community service and homestay experience.

The 37th SSEAYP is scheduled to be held from 25 October to 16 December 2010. During this period, the participants will visit Japan and five of the ten ASEAN countries namely Thailand (Bangkok), Malaysia (Port Klang), Indonesia (Jakarta), Singapore and Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh). Singapore will be sending a contingent of 28 youths and a National Leader to participate in this year’s programme.

In Singapore, SSEAYP is co-ordinated by the National Youth Council (NYC) - the national co-ordinating body for youth and youth sector development in Singapore, together with the SSEAYP International Singapore (SIS), the Alumni body of ex-SSEAYP Singapore participants.

For more information, you may wish to contact Mr Ong Wei Quan at DID: 68399132, email: Ong_Wei_Quan@PA.gov.sg or Ms Iris Aw at DID: 68399135.

For more information on SSEAYP Alumni activities, please visit The SSEAYP International Singapore website at:

http://www.sseayp.com/sis/