Malaysia calls for a united, assertive ASEAN to navigate global rivalries, emphasising peace, inclusivity and regional centrality.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has urged ASEAN to forge a stronger and more cohesive front amid intensifying global power rivalries and volatile geopolitical dynamics.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan emphasised the bloc must remain a voice of reason and a resilient community committed to peace and shared prosperity.
He stated ASEAN must preserve its centrality in addressing regional and international challenges.
“ASEAN must continue to be a voice of reason, a beacon for dialogue and cooperation, and a resilient community,” he said in his keynote address at the 9th ASEAN Media Forum.
Mohamad said Malaysia would ensure ASEAN remains a proactive regional actor safeguarding peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia.
His speech was delivered by ASEAN-Malaysia National Secretariat Director-General Datuk Zanariah Zainal Abidin.
Mohamad noted Malaysia’s chairmanship focused on advancing inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience as foundations for ASEAN’s next growth phase.
He acknowledged Malaysia assumed this role amid a rapidly changing global environment marked by major power rivalry and geo-economic competition.
“As an outward-looking organisation, ASEAN must continue to punch above its weight by broadening its global partnerships,” he stated.
He added that deepening ties with diverse partners is “not a choice, but a strategic imperative.”
Mohamad highlighted Timor-Leste’s admission as the bloc’s 11th member during the recent 47th ASEAN Summit.
He also noted the signing of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord between Thailand and Cambodia as major ASEAN milestones.
“The inclusion of Timor-Leste underscores ASEAN’s enduring principle of inclusivity and its vision of shared peace, progress, and prosperity,” he said.
The Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord was witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and US President Donald Trump.
Mohamad said this demonstrated ASEAN’s commitment to resolving disputes through peaceful dialogue and consensus.
He confirmed Malaysia continues facilitating the Myanmar peace process by providing a neutral platform for “Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led solutions.” – Bernama
