Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced Malaysia's readiness to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 with clarity and conviction. Anwar, however, highlighted that the responsibility of leadership extends beyond governments, urging businesses, academics, entrepreneurs, and civil society to contribute to shaping an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stressed the urgency for ASEAN to act with unity and ambition to secure a prosperous future for all. He noted that this period is not suited for incrementalism or short-term thinking but requires bold decisions, transformative partnerships, and a commitment to long-term prosperity. This statement was made during his keynote address at the China Conference Southeast Asia 2025.

The event also saw the presence of Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz and Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour. Anwar called for all relevant parties to engage in this vision as Malaysia deepens its role in ASEAN and strengthens its collaboration with China.

The Prime Minister emphasized building a future based on trust, innovation, and shared aspirations. The conference, organized by the South China Morning Post, has attracted over 700 government officials, diplomats, global business leaders, scholars, and thought leaders from around the world.

Throughout the day's sessions, the conference will explore the evolving China-ASEAN relationship and discuss the strategic importance of enhancing ties between China, the world's second-largest economy, and ASEAN, the world's most dynamic economic bloc.