KHON KAEN, THAILAND — As the Mekong Institute (MI) prepares to enter its landmark 30th year in 2026, it is not just looking back at a legacy of cooperation—it is charting a bold, interconnected course for the future of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS).
To kick off this milestone year, MI has officially unveiled its 30th Anniversary Logo. Born from a competitive subregion-wide search that drew 25 entries from across the GMS, the winning design reflects a shared identity that transcends borders.
Selected by the MI Governing Board during their meeting in Champasak Province, Lao PDR, the winning design is the work of Mr. Ourn Tyty, a visual designer from Cambodia. His creation was lauded for its ability to capture MI’s complex mission through elegant, resonant simplicity.
“I shaped the number 30 into a smooth, connected form to represent long-term growth and continuity,” Mr. Tyty explained. “The flowing lines are inspired by the Mekong River itself, the lifeblood of our region, symbolizing how MI brings countries and communities together in a single, shared current of progress.”
On having the design chosen for this milestone, the designer added: “It is truly an honor for me. Personally, I am proud to be part of such an important milestone. Professionally, it means a lot to have my work represent an organization that has built strong trust and made a real impact over the past 30 years.”
Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn, MI Executive Director, noted that the anniversary marks a profound shift in the region’s development journey. “Thirty years ago, the Mekong Institute was a seed planted to foster cooperation. Today, seeing this milestone captured through the eyes of the region’s creative talents proves that MI’s mission has truly taken root,” Mr. Suriyan remarked.
“Our 30th anniversary theme — People, Partnership, Progress — celebrates three decades of the human capital and partnerships we have nurtured. By choosing a design from within the subregion, we pay tribute to our mission of deep regional integration. Our work centers on fostering the cooperation that allows the people of the GMS to unite and design their own collective future,” Mr. Suriyan remarked.
The 30th Anniversary Logo will serve as the hallmark for a year-long series of events, strategic reflections, and high-level dialogues throughout 2026. While it acts as a temporary brand extension to complement the official MI logo, it carries a permanent message: the bonds across the Mekong are stronger than ever.
As MI marks three decades of bridging borders and fueling progress, we invite the GMS community to step into a new chapter; one where our shared heritage powers a future of unprecedented integration, prosperity, and harmony.
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To ensure consistency and proper application, MI has developed an official guideline for the Visibility and Usage of the MI 30th Anniversary Logo, which will govern its use across all platforms, materials, and events throughout 2026.
