The ASEAN Theme Song encourages the peoples of ASEAN to transcend insularity of whatever kind and to go beyond the barriers of seas and mountains, languages and cultures, so that they may evolve a consciousness that will enable them to link arms towards mutually beneficial goals.

The theme song also asks the peoples of ASEAN to proudly rise on their feet before the world community as countries that are each unique in themselves but united in their ideals.

Finally, it also tells the peoples of ASEAN that "the sun has risen to the level of our eyes" or that ASEAN has already risen above the horizon and shines as an undeniable presence, giving light and warmth and life. But this is only the beginning, because ASEAN peoples now face a day full of challenges and opportunities to grow and work together with respect and understanding, to achieve peace and prosperity in the region and in the world.

The song, selected from seven entries presented to the ASEAN Committee on Culture and Information (COCI) has been approved and adopted by the 30th meeting of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian in July 1997.