PM Anwar Urges Stronger ASEAN Cooperation To Face Geopolitical Shifts

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 8 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today underscored that ASEAN’s unity is more vital than ever as the region navigates intensifying geopolitical rivalry, economic fragmentation and global uncertainty.

Speaking in conjunction with ASEAN’s 58th anniversary, Anwar said Malaysia is honoured to serve as ASEAN Chair this year and fully aware that it comes at a time of profound consequence not only in international affairs but also in how nations trade, work and live.

“58 years ago, ASEAN was founded with a simple but enduring purpose - to keep the peace, to build trust, and to foster cooperation among neighbours. That vision remains the bedrock of our community today,” said Anwar in a four-minute and 51-second video posted on his Facebook today. 

The Prime Minister said that ASEAN's ability to speak clearly, to coordinate effectively and to protect its shared interests will shape its relevance in the years ahead.

From digitalisation to decarbonisation, he said ASEAN must prepare its people for transitions already underway, and that to adapt, advance and thrive, the bloc must keep investing in skills, infrastructure and institutional capacity.

Anwar further said that ASEAN, with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of nearly USD4 trillion and home to over 670 million people, has the potential to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2030.

However, he also noted that scale alone is not enough as ASEAN must grow in ways that are more inclusive, sustainable and broadly shared.

“That is the focus of Malaysia’s Chairmanship and that is the legacy we hope to pass on to the Philippines when they assume the Chair in 2026,” he said.

Anwar also welcomed the progress of Timor-Leste’s accession, saying its inclusion as the 11th member state will complete ASEAN’s representation of all geographic Southeast Asia.

The Prime Minister also said that the ASEAN Vision 2045 sets out long-term goals for a region that is resilient, innovative and people-centred. 

"It is a forward-looking document but its success depends on actions we take now, from improving regional connectivity to strengthening food and energy security," he said.

At the same time, Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to ASEAN Centrality, noting that the bloc must remain at the heart of regional dialogue and cooperation as well as address difficult issues constructively, including the situation in Myanmar.

The Prime Minister said anniversaries offer a moment to reflect not only on achievements but also on the work ahead, and he acknowledged that while ASEAN’s progress is real, the challenges ahead are equally significant.

"What will carry us forward in strength and conviction is the same approach that built this community in the first place - strategic foresight, mutual respect and trust, and a commitment to work together.

"On behalf of the government of Malaysia, I wish all ASEAN citizens a meaningful 58th ASEAN Day. May our cooperation continue to deepen. May our unity remain firm and may ASEAN continue to stand as a shining example of peace, progress and partnership in our region and beyond,” said Anwar.

-- BERNAMA