Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today urged ASEAN member states to uphold unity, adaptability, and shared purpose amid an increasingly uncertain global landscape. Anwar highlighted Malaysia's Chairmanship of ASEAN this year as a profound responsibility to guide the regional bloc while renewing its sense of purpose and direction in a rapidly changing world.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that leadership requires defining priorities and charting a course that aligns with the hopes of ASEAN's people. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, he addressed leaders from Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Brunei. Dignitaries such as United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, European Council President Antonio Costa, and leaders from Canada, Brazil, South Africa, and Timor-Leste were also present.
Anwar pointed out that 2025 presents new challenges for ASEAN as global uncertainties mount, with shifting geopolitical dynamics and economic disruptions testing the region's resilience. He stressed the importance of cooperation and dialogue in an increasingly divided world. Despite these challenges, Anwar asserted that ASEAN's strength lies in its diversity and commitment to respect and reason.
The ASEAN Community Vision 2045, adopted in May, outlines the bloc's aspirations to strengthen unity, pursue inclusive growth, and safeguard future generations' welfare. Anwar also introduced the ASEAN AI Safety Network (AI SAFE), a new initiative aimed at embedding ethics and governance in the use of artificial intelligence across the region.
Anwar underscored the need for ASEAN to adapt to global economic shifts marked by rising protectionism and evolving supply chains. He encouraged ASEAN to forge new partnerships and deepen existing ones to remain resilient. Malaysia's hosting of the 2nd ASEAN-GCC and ASEAN-GCC-China Summits earlier this year highlighted the region's growing engagement with global partners.
Efforts to advance economic cooperation will continue with the Fifth RCEP Leaders' Summit, aiming to realize the full potential of the world's largest free trade area. Anwar welcomed Brazil and South Africa's participation as Guests of the Chair at the 20th East Asia Summit, viewing it as a vital step in expanding ASEAN's engagement with BRICS and G20 nations.
The 47th ASEAN Summit, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from Oct 26 to 28 under Malaysia's ASEAN 2025 Chairmanship, is themed 'Inclusivity and Sustainability'. This summit marks Malaysia's fifth ASEAN Chairmanship since the bloc's inception in 1967, previously held in 2015, 2005, 1997, and 1977.