Malaysia’s Chairmanship Drives ASEAN’s Leap Into The Digital Future 

KUALA LUMPUR, May 25 (Bernama) -- ASEAN is set to fully embrace the advances in science, technology and innovation, especially breakthroughs in artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing, as the grouping takes a bold step into the future under Malaysia’s Chairmanship.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan outlined this focus during his opening remarks at the 36th ASEAN Coordinating Council (ACC) Meeting here today, ahead of the 46th ASEAN Summit.

He said these rapid digital advancements hold the key to faster economic growth, societal progress and greater security across Southeast Asia.

“These advances in technology would assist us in our journey, as long as we advance together as one.

“Above all, we must ensure that no one is left behind, as we prepare our region to meet future challenges with resilience and foresight,” said the Malaysian chair.

Mohamad stressed that ASEAN’s ability to remain connected and resilient will be crucial to maintaining its competitiveness and relevance.

He said the bloc’s track record proves that when member states unite with determination, great opportunities are created for its people.

“ASEAN must continue its rally, with purpose and in unity, to emerge stronger in the face of a turbulent world, characterised by fragmentation and uncertainty,” he added.

Earlier, Mohamad described the meeting as a timely opportunity to reflect on ASEAN’s progress across its three pillars, namely the Political-Security Community (APSC), Economic Community (AEC) and Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC).

“This is important as we approach the conclusion of the vision ‘ASEAN 2025: Forging Ahead Together’ and move into the future with ‘ASEAN 2045: Our Shared Future’,” he said.

In preparation for tomorrow’s ASEAN Summit, the meeting also reviewed the progress made by Timor-Leste in implementing the roadmap for its full membership, as well as the implementation of the decisions and commitments made by ASEAN leaders at the last summit in Vientiane.

The 46th ASEAN Summit, held under Malaysia’s 2025 Chairmanship, themed “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, marks the country’s fifth time chairing the regional bloc. Malaysia previously chaired ASEAN in 1977, 1997, 2005 and 2015.

-- BERNAMA