Kuala lumpur: Malaysia views ASEAN as a region with vast untapped potential, poised to become a dynamic engine of growth and resilience amid global uncertainties, according to the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI). MITI Deputy Secretary General (Trade) Mastura Ahmad Mustafa emphasized that ASEAN is more than just a large market; it is a reservoir of innovation, creativity, and energy, with a population nearing 700 million, almost one-third of whom are youth.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mastura highlighted the unique advantages of ASEAN, citing its demographic dividend, rapidly growing consumer class, rising connectivity, and accelerating digital adoption. She noted that if these strengths are nurtured in accordance with the principles of sustainability and inclusivity, they will not only fortify the region's growth but also position ASEAN to play a defining role in shaping the future of the global economy. Mastura shared these insights during her speech at the welcome dinner for the Senior Economic Officials' Meeting (SEOM) 3/56 and Related Meetings.
Under Malaysia's ASEAN chairmanship, Mastura stated that the country is working to deepen regional integration, strengthen supply chain resilience, foster sustainable and responsible investment, and advance digital innovation. She emphasized Malaysia's commitment to creating opportunities for businesses of all sizes, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises, to participate meaningfully in ASEAN's growth story.
In a separate statement, MITI outlined key discussions at SEOM 3/56, focusing on Malaysia's Priority Economic Deliverables under its 2025 ASEAN chairmanship, updates on the 2025 Annual Priorities under the AEM/SEOM purview, implementation of ASEAN agreements, advancement of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement, and ASEAN's sustainability agenda, including carbon neutrality, circular economy, and the ASEAN Power Grid.
MITI is hosting the SEOM 3/56 and Related Meetings from August 18 to 23 in Kuala Lumpur. The ministry noted that discussions with ASEAN Dialogue Partners concentrated on reviewing progress and addressing key issues related to the implementation of existing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), as well as the status of work plans and ongoing economic cooperation initiatives.