Well-positioned to prosper

IN assuming the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for 2025, Malaysia's Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Asean's commitment to fostering a policy of open and inclusive engagement with all relevant stakeholders.

Emphasising the importance of dialogue and cooperation, Anwar has pledged to prioritise initiatives that strengthen regional unity, enhance economic collaboration and address common challenges such as climate change, security threats and socioeconomic disparities.

Indeed, one of Asean's key pillars is its dedication to fostering relations and cooperation with external partners, including China, the United States, Japan, the Republic of Korea, India, Australia and others.

This open policy has brought numerous benefits to the Asean members, such as economic growth, enhanced mutual understanding on security issues, and significant contributions to the peace and stability of the region.

Over the decades, this platform has deepened and broadened to include new partners and initiatives. This year, Malaysia will host the inaugural summit in May between Asean, the Gulf Cooperation Council and China. This initiative will enhance Asean's role in shaping the inter-regional dialogue on trade, investment, energy and security cooperation.

According to Anwar, Asean must expand its global engagement beyond traditional partners to better navigate the current tensions in global trade. "Strengthening ties with China, the GCC, BRICS and other emerging economies is not about choosing sides," Anwar said. "Rather, it is about ensuring Asean has strategic relevance in a multipolar world."

It must be acknowledged that as a dialogue partner, China has played a constructive and pivotal role in advancing regional growth and stability. Today, China is Asean's leading trading partner and a major source of investment. Through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, Asean has further consolidated its economic interdependence with China, and enhanced its connectivity.

As an ardent supporter of Asean's core principles of neutrality and regional centrality, China has consistently demonstrated its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. Beijing's active participation in multilateral frameworks and willingness to collaborate on shared challenges further underscore China's crucial role in fostering a stable and prosperous Southeast Asia.

The 21st century is witnessing profound transformations in the global geopolitical and economic landscape. In this era of uncertainty and shifting power dynamics, Asean must steadfastly uphold its core principles of neutrality, inclusivity and proactive engagement with all stakeholders.

The path ahead demands resilience, adaptability and unity, but with a clear focus on its foundational values, Asean, with the support of external partners such as China, is well-positioned to navigate the challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

Read More: Here