THE spirit of mutual trust among ASEAN members has been pivotal in addressing various regional challenges, Prime Minister and ASEAN Chair Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim asserted during the opening of the 46th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur today.
He cited the peaceful resolution of the minor conflict between Thailand and Cambodia as evidence of ASEAN’s collective commitment.
“What happens within ASEAN also demonstrates this spirit of mutual trust. For example, the minor conflict between Thailand and Cambodia was successfully managed because of this spirit.
“Likewise, on the issue of Myanmar, ASEAN is firm on our own terms – to stop violence, provide humanitarian access without discrimination, and engage with the ASEAN community.
“You (Myanmar) must allow humanitarian aid without discrimination. I must emphasise, at least on this issue, stop the bombings and atrocities against ethnic minorities. Secondly, ensure humanitarian access,” he said.
Anwar added that for the first time in a decade, these principles were agreed upon, enabling humanitarian aid from member states to reach victims of the earthquake in Myanmar last March.
Despite ongoing conflicts, the Prime Minister urged the region to prioritise economic development and new investments.
“Our priority is certainly economic development and new investments. We have received significant investments from the United States and Europe, as well as increased investments from China, India, and other countries.
“It is not easy to manage, but we can do so because we move together. Imagine, we will hold a summit in October.
“So, we are not only talking about 10 or around 11 countries, but about nations that attract significant attention and interest from countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and Latin America,” he added.
Present at the event were AIPA President and Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat Tan Sri Johari Abdul, along with other Speakers and Members of Parliament from ASEAN countries.
Meanwhile, Tan Sri Johari Abdul urged all parliaments in the region to remain steadfast as bastions of democracy for their respective nations.
“The parliamentary institution is not merely a law-making body but a bridge in ensuring peace, stability, and inclusive progress in the region.
“For us in AIPA, the way forward is not limited to passing bills or debating motions. Parliamentary leadership is about ensuring solutions emerge from genuine dialogue and participation. Peace must be based on justice, inclusiveness, and governance that respects all voices.
“Parliaments must remain as fortresses of democracy. It is within these chambers that trust is either preserved or neglected. If the parliament stands firm, transparent and accountable, it will safeguard democracy itself.
“But if we falter, the foundations of governance will be undermined,” he emphasised during his address.
Tan Sri Johari also highlighted Malaysia’s role as ASEAN Chair this year, describing it as a unique opportunity to align urgent regional needs with parliamentary leadership.
Under the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability,’ he noted that parliamentary diplomacy is not an isolated practice but an essential partner to ASEAN’s executive agenda.
“Let us remember that public disillusionment is not an issue of one nation alone but a collective warning. If the people lose faith in us, ASEAN’s unity and progress will be at risk.
“But if we listen, act, and demonstrate that parliaments can deliver justice and hope, then we will not only earn their trust but also their cooperation in building a stronger ASEAN.
“This is why Malaysia’s presidency in AIPA is not merely about resolutions. We have created spaces for dialogue, including the ‘Now & Future’ forum and exhibition,” he said.
This platform connects policymakers, businesses, and communities to explore how innovation and collaboration can shape ASEAN’s shared future, inviting all delegates to experience it as part of a collective journey. - September 18, 2025
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