PM Anwar: ASEAN is one of the world’s most peaceful and fastest-growing economic regions despite criticism
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has defended ASEAN’s relevance and achievements amid criticisms that the regional bloc remains ineffective, saying the organisation continues to stand out as one of the most peaceful and fastest-growing regions in the world.
During the press conference at the conclusion of the 47th ASEAN Summit, Anwar said Malaysia’s chairmanship built upon ASEAN’s long-standing record of stability and cooperation.
“I don’t think there’s a sense of merit based on my chairmanship. I inherited an organisation that has done remarkably well in some areas,” he said.
“What is critical in any regional body is to secure peace — and ASEAN is now considered one of the most peaceful regions in the world.”
Anwar said ASEAN’s focus on strengthening economic fundamentals has also cemented its position as one of the fastest-growing economic regions globally, attracting attention from investors and major powers alike.
“Because it is peaceful, it has enormous potential to propel economic growth. Have we achieved everything? No, certainly not,” he said.
“But we’ve made progress — including on the ASEAN Power Grid, connectivity, and shifting the focus toward intra-ASEAN trade and investments.”
The prime minister highlighted Malaysia’s efforts to expand ASEAN’s cooperation beyond its traditional partners to regions such as Latin America and Africa.
“We talk about globalisation and multilateralism — why must we ignore Africa and Latin America?” he said.
“We consider them great friends. Both President Lula da Silva (Brazil) and President Cyril Ramaphosa (South Africa)are my friends, and we want to deepen trade and investment ties with them.”
When asked about the absence of a joint statement from the East Asia Summit, Anwar said the lack of consensus reflected ongoing global tensions but underscored ASEAN’s continued commitment to engagement.
“The East Asia Summit, sponsored by ASEAN, at least showed a preparedness to engage and listen. They may agree or disagree, but that’s the position,” he said.
“The consensus within ASEAN is to ensure that there is engagement — we should not stop engaging.”
Anwar also reaffirmed Malaysia’s stance on maintaining neutrality in regional security matters.
“Our maritime policy will never allow the presence of any foreign military force that would be deemed provocative,” he said.
“That would be inconsistent with our policy of centrality — engaging with all, without aligning against anyone.”
The prime minister said ASEAN’s strength lies in its ability to remain a zone of peace and growth while engaging constructively with major powers and new partners alike.
