The recently-concluded 43rd Asean Summit in Indonesia has signified the region’s growing power and economic growth prospects, showcasing Asean’s determination to become an exemplary regional grouping. The summit, with its theme Epicentrum of growth, highlighted Asean’s impressive economic outlook, particularly in the digital economy which is projected to reach US$1 trillion to US$2 trillion by 2030.
Indonesia received accolades for its excellent preparations and seamless execution of the summit, which was attended by numerous world leaders as dialogue partners. This underscored the importance of Asean in today’s complex geopolitical and geoeconomic landscape. Asean’s cooperation network has expanded to involve key global players through various Asean-led mechanisms, solidifying its status as a driving force in regional architecture.
Asean’s prominence in regional diplomacy was evident during the summit, where it brought together key countries across the globe and showcased its diplomatic clout in mediating great power competition. The region is keen on maintaining peace and stability, with Malaysia playing a significant role within Asean platforms. Malaysia’s historical role in Asean, particularly the leadership of Tun Abdul Razak, has ensured that Asean remains the cornerstone of the country’s foreign policy.
Within Asean, Malaysia addresses critical issues such as the South China Sea dispute and the situation in Myanmar. Malaysia emphasizes the importance of peaceful and rational dialogue based on universally-recognized principles of international law to resolve the South China Sea issue. Additionally, Malaysia commits to implementing the Declaration of Conduct and negotiations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea to ensure regional peace and stability.
The Indo-Pacific strategy has gained momentum in the region, with several countries crafting their own strategies. Malaysia stresses the need for coordination and alignment with the Asean Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) to place Asean at the forefront of shaping the regional architecture.
At the recent summit, Malaysia also highlighted Muslim ummah-related issues such as Palestine and Islamophobia. Malaysia stands as the sole country within Asean to raise concerns about the plight of Palestine. The country calls for a comprehensive and sustainable solution to the conflict in Palestine, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the Middle East. Malaysia also addresses Islamophobia, asserting that it infringes upon human rights and the right to religion and belief. Leaders are urged to work together to resolve these challenges.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership has undoubtedly elevated Malaysia’s international profile. His adeptness in leader-to-leader diplomacy and the relentless efforts of Malaysian officials have bolstered Malaysia’s image in the region and beyond. Looking ahead to 2025, as Malaysia assumes the role of Asean chair, expectations are high for the country to lead Asean into a new trajectory toward its long-term vision for 2045. The Asean Community Vision 2045 aims to address current and emerging challenges and opportunities, promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
With Malaysia playing a central role under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership, the country is well-positioned to further strengthen Asean and solidify partnerships in the face of swift-changing geopolitical shifts. The region looks forward to Malaysia’s leadership in navigating this critical juncture and achieving Asean’s long-term strategic goals.
