KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 7 — Malaysia, as the Asean chair next year, will ensure the Asean Community Vision 2045 serves as a core document that acts as the primary framework contributing to peace, stability, and sustainable cooperation in the region.
The Foreign Ministry (Wisma Putra) said Asean will launch its vision and strategic plan outlining the strategic direction of the region for the next 20 years in 2025.
“As Asean chairman in 2025, Malaysia will focus on the principle of Asean Centrality through dialogue and diplomacy, particularly in facing international geopolitical challenges and regional economic integration to maintain a peaceful, stable, secure, and prosperous region.
“The theme of Malaysia’s Asean Chairmanship is "Inclusivity and Sustainability". Malaysia's goal is to promote development, growth, and prosperity across all levels of society sustainably for the well-being of the people,” it said in a written reply in the Dewan Rakyat today
Wisma Putra was replying to Marang MP Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang's query on Malaysia’s direction and main focus as Asean Chair in 2025, especially in addressing international geopolitical challenges and regional economic integration.
In terms of foreign relations, it said Malaysia will encourage dialogue partners to manage differences responsibly and avoid escalating tensions, emphasising the need to reject any negative external approaches that could divide Asean unity.
“In terms of economic integration, Malaysia will focus on efforts to enhance intra-Asean trade and investment, which is still at a low level. Malaysia is confident that upgrading the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement during its chairmanship next year will support this endeavour,” Wisma Putra stressed.
At the same time, Malaysia will lead efforts to explore and expand economic cooperation and partnerships beyond the Asean region, including hosting the 2nd Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit and the Asean + GCC + China Summit.
— Bernama
