PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said that ASEAN is gaining major international recognition and respect, attributing its rising global stature to the deep trust, confidence and solidarity shared among its ten member states.
Speaking at the opening of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and related sessions, Anwar highlighted that recent bilateral meetings with world leaders in Brazil, Italy and France all featured significant discussions about ASEAN — a clear indication of the bloc’s growing relevance.
“Everyone had recognised the role of ASEAN. ASEAN has now achieved a spectacular position, (gaining) major respect and international recognition. I thank you all, particularly the foreign ministers,” he said.
With Malaysia set to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, Anwar underscored the chosen theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability” and outlined the broader strategic vision towards ASEAN 2045 — one that fortifies unity, deepens economic integration and defends the region’s independence.
“ASEAN did not emerge from simplicity, but from complexity and a spirit of dialogue — and that spirit must be preserved,” Anwar said.
Addressing contemporary geopolitical upheavals from Gaza and Ukraine to Myanmar and the Middle East, he warned against succumbing to great power narratives or selective adherence to international norms. “ASEAN must remain a principled platform, championing justice, international law and the voice of the oppressed,” he added.
On internal cohesion, the Prime Minister called for stronger intra-ASEAN trade, more cross-border investment, and faster regional economic integration — describing these as strategic necessities, not policy preferences.
“We must trade more with one another, enhance cross-border investment and expedite economic integration. This is not optional, but a strategic imperative for greater resilience,” he stated.
Anwar reiterated that ASEAN’s unity serves as a safeguard for both peace and prosperity, noting: “ASEAN’s strength is a guarantee of security; ASEAN’s strength is also a guarantee of economic growth.”
He acknowledged challenges such as the ongoing Myanmar crisis but stressed that ASEAN has continued its engagement with all parties, including junta leader Min Aung Hlaing and National Unity Government leader Mahn Win Khaing Than, thanks to the backing of regional leaders.
On recent tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, Anwar said ASEAN had acted decisively: “We had no hesitation at all to immediately call our colleagues in both countries to express our concern and support all intended initiatives to secure a lasting peace.”
He also thanked both current and former ASEAN leaders and foreign ministers for cultivating a spirit of trust and cooperation that continues to drive the regional bloc forward.
Malaysia’s upcoming chairmanship will focus on deepening regional inclusivity, sustainability and economic resilience as ASEAN approaches its centennial vision. - July 9, 2025
