MOU Between AIA International & Ho Chi Minh Association of Architects (HAA), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

On June 20, AIA Southeast Asia (AIA SEA) and the Ho Chi Minh City Association of Architects (HAA) celebrated the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.

In my speech, I emphasized that my visit was to reciprocate the trust HAA has in our nascent AIA SEA. My presence signifies my personal commitment to this relationship and honors HAA’s collaboration in supporting our events.

I highlighted three areas of opportunities:

1. Partnership: to build on our shared missions and remain relevant to the practice.

2. Membership: to find means to make AIA membership more accessible and be of value.

3. AIA Int’l Design Awards: to encourage submissions of awards and enhance our members’ profiles internationally.

During my afternoon visit to the Independence Palace (Dinh Độc Lập), I was encouraged to learn that this historical gem was designed by Architect Ngo Viet Thu, the first Asian architect to become an Honorary Fellow of AIA (1962).

I extend my gratitude to Architect Luu, President of HAA, and its board and leadership team. Great job, Khiem. As Treasurer of AIA SEA and AIA International Country Representative for Vietnam, you have made us proud. Thank you for your service.

This was my first official overseas visit as President of AIA Southeast Asia. A different hat for a change.