KUALA LUMPUR: Asean’s ability to navigate the rising geopolitical divisions threatening regional stability rests on shared leadership and a firm commitment to neutrality, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Speaking during the Khazanah Megatrends Forum here, the Prime Minister emphasised the importance of diplomacy in addressing these challenges.
As Malaysia prepares for its role as Asean chair next year, he underscored the need for a collective approach to managing the region’s complex global dynamics.“Asean faces growing geopolitical tensions that risk destabilising our region, but through strong neutrality and shared leadership, we can overcome these challenges.
“As we look ahead to Malaysia’s role as Asean chair in 2025, we are prepared to lead with a vision that prioritises unity and collaboration, ensuring that Asean remains a beacon of stability in a rapidly changing world,” Anwar said in his speech yesterday.
Anwar also reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to ensuring Asean remains a cohesive, neutral force in a polarising world, advocating for diplomacy over alignment with any global superpower.
He noted that the rising geopolitical tensions between global powers had placed significant pressure on Asean to take sides, but said Malaysia’s leadership would prioritise unity and collaboration over division.
He called for adherence to a rules-based order, both regionally and internationally, as a means to safeguard Asean’s stability.
“We will continue to advocate for neutrality and shared leadership, as this is the most effective way to maintain Asean’s stability amidst the ongoing global tensions,” he said.
Looking beyond Asean, Anwar expressed Malaysia’s intention to deepen partnerships with the BRICS intergovernmental organisation, further strengthening the South-South cooperation.
He noted that expanding ties with emerging economies would not only benefit Malaysia, but also fortify Asean’s role on the global stage.
“Asean must expand its horizons and Malaysia will actively pursue partnerships with BRICS and other nations to deepen the South-South relationships,” he added.Anwar said these alliances were critical in promoting economic and diplomatic stability in an increasingly divided global landscape.
At the same time, he reaffirmed Malaysia’s stance on the importance of fair global governance, calling for a revision of the global financial architecture to ensure equity and fairness for developing nations.
Anwar also highlighted Malaysia’s focus on addressing key regional challenges such as trade, climate change and technological innovation.
He pointed out that Malaysia’s National Industrial Master Plan 2030 was integral to ensuring that the country and region remained competitive in the global economy.
“Malaysia must adapt to sustainable technologies while moving up the semiconductor value chain,” Anwar said, stressing the importance of staying ahead of global trends in artificial intelligence and electric vehicles.
He acknowledged the growing demand for advanced technologies, noting that Malaysia’s investment in these sectors would play a crucial role in securing its place within the global economy.
The Prime Minister also called for Asean to adopt a forward- thinking approach that leverages technological advancements and fosters innovation across the region.
