In a historic development for the Cook Islands and the broader South Pacific maritime sector, Eleanor Keukura Roi, chief executive officer of the Cook Islands Shipowners Association (CISOA), has been appointed as the new chairperson of the prestigious Asian Shipowners’ Association (ASA).

The significant appointment took place during the ASA’s 34^th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which convened this week in Jakarta, Indonesia.

In a statement, Cook Islands Shipowners Association (CISOA) says Roi’s appointment marks the first time a representative from the Cook Islands – and the South Pacific – will helm the influential regional body that represents the interests of shipowners from across Asia.

“Her leadership of the ASA is a testament to her extensive experience, unwavering dedication to the maritime industry, and the growing prominence of the Cook Islands as a significant maritime nation,” Cook Islands Shipowners Association said.

Having served as vice-chairperson of the ASA since 2024, Roi has already been instrumental in amplifying the voice of Pacific maritime interests on the Asian stage.

Her elevation to chairperson underscores her recognised leadership capabilities and strategic vision for a sustainable and collaborative future for Asian shipping, CISOA said.

“I stand before you today not only as a representative of the Cook Islands, but as a proud voice of the Pacific, committed to fostering collaboration and advancing purposeful leadership across the Asia Pacific Region,” Roi said.

The Asian Shipowners’ Association is a key organisation, bringing together national shipowners’ associations from across Asia, collectively representing a significant portion of the world’s merchant fleet.

According to CISOA, Roi’s leadership is expected to bring a unique and valuable perspective to the ASA, further strengthening ties between Asian and Pacific maritime stakeholders.

The 34^th ASA Annual General Meeting in Jakarta brought together leading figures from the Asian shipping industry to discuss critical issues including decarbonisation, maritime safety, seafarer welfare, and the evolving global trade landscape.

Roi’s appointment was a highlight of the event, heralding a new chapter of inclusive leadership for the association.

“This landmark achievement for the Cook Islands signifies its growing influence in international maritime affairs and highlights the leadership capabilities within the smaller island nations of the Pacific,” CISOA said.

The Cook Islands Shipowners Association represents the interests of shipowners and operators connected with the Cook Islands maritime flag. It strives to promotes high standards of shipping and safety while advocating for the sustainable growth of the maritime sector in the Cook Islands and the wider Pacific region.

The Asian Shipowners’ Association is a voluntary organisation of the shipowners’ associations of ASEAN countries, Australia, China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, and the Cook Islands. Its objectives are to promote the interests of Asian shipowners and to foster cooperation among its members.