In the Thai culture, garland (or “Phuang Malai”) symbolizes respect, welcome and well wishing.  
As Thailand assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2019, the Royal Thai government has chosen garland to be the official logo of all ASEAN related events throughout the year, under the encompassing theme of “Advancing Partnership for Sustainability”.  

Unlike typical garlands made of flowers, this fabric garland is an innovation from a Thai rural community in the province of Amnat Charoen.  It is made of hand woven loin cloth (or “Pakaoma”), an all-purpose household fabric which has served Thai families for several centuries.