Malaysia Calls For Stronger ASEAN Unity Amid Shifting Global Power Dynamics

By Harizah Hanim Mohamed

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 17 (Bernama) – The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) must continuously consider new major power dynamics under ‘Trump 2.0’ while remaining actively outspoken and principled on geopolitical and economic issues in order to achieve ASEAN’s economic agenda this year, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

He also pointed out that various middle powers and other regions in line with the Global South are calling for a new world order, while emphasising that resolving ASEAN’s issues must be a whole-of-ASEAN effort.

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“Resolving all these requires the consensus of all member states. The economically stronger ones with more global political currency must also pull their weight in resolving such issues.

“Malaysia, as the Chair of ASEAN 2025, may lead, but the responsibility must be shouldered by all, no matter how cumbersome it may be to achieve consensus,” he said in his lunchtime keynote at the Organisation of Asia-Pacific News Agencies’ (OANA) 54th Executive Board Meeting at Royale Chulan Hotel today.

Also present were Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin, editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, and executive editor (discharging the duties of Deputy Editor-in-Chief) for International News Service, Mohd Shukri Ishak.

The event was also attended by the secretary-general of OANA, Zaman Rezakhan. 

Malaysia, through Bernama, is hosting the 54th OANA Executive Board Meeting (EBM) over four days, beginning Sunday (Feb 16).

Tengku Zafrul also reiterated that these are the key factors that will define how Malaysia navigates its chairmanship.

“Truth be told, ASEAN has never faced a more challenging landscape. By getting through these tough issues in 2025, Malaysia can set a refreshed, stronger ASEAN spirit for the coming years.

He also said that 2025 marks the beginning of ASEAN Vision 3.0, with the main objective being to formulate strategic plans for the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, ensuring a more integrated and cohesive ASEAN.

“We want to ensure the grouping’s continued relevance, prosperity and sustainability. Equally important, we also want our people – the 680-million ASEAN population – to be at the centre of our sustainable development,” he added.

-- BERNAMA