ASEAN Parliaments Urged To Boost Cooperation In Trade, Tourism And Digital Growth

By Ahmad Erwan Othman

VIENTIANE, Oct 19 (Bernama) -- ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) members must enhance cooperation in infrastructure, trade, tourism and digital transformation to drive regional connectivity, foster inclusive growth, and create a conducive environment for social economic progress, says Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul.

Speaking at the 45th General Assembly of AIPA’s First Plenary Session here today, Johari, who represented the Parliament of Malaysia highlighted that such efforts were critical, among others, in building transportation networks, energy grids and digital infrastructure, which formed the backbone of regional connectivity.

“Through our legislative, oversight, and representative functions, we have the ability to drive regional connectivity, foster inclusive growth, and create a conducive environment for economic and social progress.

“By harmonising laws across ASEAN, parliaments facilitating trade, investment, and the movement of people, supporting a more integrated ASEAN economy,” he said.

Themed ‘The Role of Parliaments in Enhancing Connectivity and Inclusive Growth of ASEAN’, the four-day General Assembly event held at the National Convention Centre (NCC) here, gathered the participation of delegations from member parliaments, observers, and development partners of AIPA.

Johari, who will assume the AIPA presidency on Oct 21, underscored tourism as a key economic driver, advocating for standardised visa regulations and improved transportation links to boost ASEAN’s appeal as a top global destination.

On governance, Johari stressed the importance of parliamentary oversight in ensuring transparency, efficiency, and public trust, noting that it played a pivotal role in upholding the rule of law and combatting corruption.

“As representatives of the people, we have a profound responsibility to amplify their voices and protect their interests,” he said by calling for policies that ensured economic growth reaches all segments of society.

Johari also highlighted the need to bridge the digital divide, urging investment in rural digital infrastructure and promoting digital literacy to ensure equitable access to technology and its benefits.

“The digital revolution presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a more equitable future and by acting decisively, we can ensure that no one is left behind and that technology drives progress and inclusivity across ASEAN,” he said.

Earlier, Laos National Assembly president and AIPA-45 president Saysomphone Phomvihane in his opening remarks emphasised the importance of AIPA as a forum for exchanging strategic directions to realise the common goals of AIPA and ASEAN.

“The AIPA-45 is taking place amid complicated and unpredictable developments in the region and the world, including many important problems such as conflicts in many places, climate change, natural disasters, and economic and financial crises. 

“In the face of unprecedented difficulties and challenges, cooperation has continued to be valued and become a prominent trend in relations among countries,” he said.

He noted that the trend of solidarity and cooperation was clearly demonstrated through ASEAN's efforts in implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2025, ASEAN Community Blueprint 2025, ASEAN Connectivity Blueprint 2025, and the Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan.

Tomorrow, Johari is scheduled to receive several courtesy calls from AIPA delegations and observer countries at the NCC.

-- BERNAMA