The final round of the series of Asean youth camps has been declared open by Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong at the National Museum of Singapore on Tuesday morning.

"Today, a common Asean identity is very gradually emerging," said the minister in his opening speech. "But more can be done to instil a deeper sense of shared culture and community."

The camp, organised once every two year since 1998, aims to foster closer ties among the youth of member Asean states through programmes and activities focusing on the arts, heritage and culture.

This year, some 40 participants from 10 countries will be exposed to Singaporean culture through workshops on traditional music and dance, painting and photography. They will also get to go on guided tours to Singapore landmarks like the Esplanade, Kampong Glam and the Asian Civilisations Museum.

This last installation of the Asean Youth Camp is organised by the National Heritage Board, the National Arts Council and the People's Association. Chief executive officer of the National Heritage Board Rosa Daniel said: "Having our youths come together to participate in sharing cultural experiences is an especially wonderful way to strengthen our bonds of friendship."