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Commonwealth Day 2025: Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei Thriving in a Global Family

Commonwealth Day 2025: Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei Thriving in a Global Family
The 2025 Commonwealth Asia Youth Awards were held in Pakistan, Islamabad, from 28th - 30th January | Credit: Commonwealth Secretariat on flickr

Together We Thrive: The Commonwealth and Its Role in Southeast Asia

Every year, on the second Monday of March, Commonwealth Day is celebrated across 56 independent and equal member countries, emphasizing shared values of democracy, development, and peace. In 2025, Commonwealth Day falls on March 10. 

The theme, "Together We Thrive," highlights the enduring spirit of the Commonwealth family, fostering cooperation between advanced economies and developing nations, including 33 small states and island nations.

What is the Commonwealth?

The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of nations whose roots date back to the British Empire. Initially known as the British Commonwealth of Nations, it evolved into the modern Commonwealth in 1949 with the London Declaration, which allowed republics and other states to join while maintaining their independence. 

Today, any country can apply for membership, as seen with the most recent additions of Gabon and Togo in 2022.

Also read: Malaysia Has Emerged as a Potential Host for the 2026 Commonwealth Games After Australia’s Pullout

The Evolution of the Commonwealth

The association began with semi-independent nations, known as Dominions, which included Australia, Canada, India, and others. 

The pivotal moment came in 1949 when India’s desire to remain in the Commonwealth as a republic led to the formal restructuring of the group. Since then, the Commonwealth has expanded across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Pacific.

Also read: Brunei Company Unveiled Ambitious Trans-Borneo Railway, Expected to Catalyze Regional Economy

The Commonwealth’s Role in Southeast Asia

In Southeast Asia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei are the three nations that remain part of the Commonwealth. Their membership reflects historical ties with the British Empire and a shared commitment to the Commonwealth’s values.

Malaysia

Malaysia joined the Commonwealth upon gaining independence in 1957. The country benefits from Commonwealth initiatives in education, trade, and governance. 

Malaysia also participates actively in the Commonwealth Games and various economic collaborations that promote sustainable development.

Singapore

Singapore, a member of the Commonwealth since its independence in 1965, values the Commonwealth’s role in trade and diplomacy. 

As a global financial hub, Singapore benefits from Commonwealth trade agreements and economic cooperation. It also engages in leadership programs and capacity-building initiatives.

Brunei Darussalam

Brunei gained full sovereignty in 1984 and became a Commonwealth member in 1984. The nation leverages Commonwealth partnerships for development programs and diplomatic engagements. 

Brunei also contributes to discussions on sustainable growth and regional stability within the Commonwealth.

Also read: Southeast Asia Shines in 2025 Asia-Pacific’s Best Cities: Singapore Tops the List

Why is Commonwealth Day Celebrated?

Commonwealth Day serves as a reminder of its member states' shared history, values, and aspirations. 

While the celebrations vary, the day is marked by official messages from leaders, educational programs, and public events that reinforce the principles of cooperation and mutual progress.

Also read: Singapore Tops Asia-Pacific as Least Corrupt Country, Ranks 3rd Globally

Is the Commonwealth Still Relevant?

For Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, Commonwealth membership offers diplomatic ties, trade opportunities, and collaborative projects in education, sports, and governance. While the relevance of the Commonwealth is often debated, its role in fostering international cooperation remains significant.

As the theme "Together We Thrive" suggests, the Commonwealth continues to evolve, ensuring that its member nations—big or small—find strength in unity, shared values, and collective growth.

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