AMMTC Recognised As Key Platform To Strengthen ASEAN Cooperation Against Transnational Crime

By Puti Iylia Maisarah Zol Azman

MELAKA, Sept 11 (Bernama) -- The 19th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) and its related meetings have been regarded as a resounding success, serving as a vital platform for member states to strengthen cooperation and coordination in addressing the increasing complexity of cross-border crimes.

Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police Special Branch Pol. Maj. Gen. Voravat Amornvivat said transnational crime today has become increasingly complex and multidimensional due to technological advances and evolving modus operandi of criminal syndicates.

“These syndicates have strong networks, use cyberspace extensively and constantly adjust their methods. The key issue is that no single ASEAN member state can tackle these crimes alone. 

“We need to share intelligence, exchange information and collaborate on capacity building in every possible way,” he told Bernama, here today. 

Voravat, who is one of the delegates emphasised that the 19th AMMTC is a ministerial-level forum in enhancing cooperation, stating that when ministers come together, they could align their goals, address mutual challenges and develop a coordinated strategic plan.

Meanwhile, Chief of Staff to the Director-General of the Migration Service of Timor-Leste, Miguel Gomes said that the information shared by all leaders at the meeting was highly valuable, particularly as it marked Timor-Leste’s final participation as an observer for the regional grouping.

“Obviously, this meeting is very important for us. It has helped us understand the necessary steps to work with ASEAN countries to prevent and combat human trafficking, both regionally and globally,” he said.

On May 27, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that Timor-Leste will become ASEAN’s 11th member state, with full membership to be granted at the next regional meeting in Kuala Lumpur this October.

Colonel Benjamin D. Cadiente Jr from the Philippine Centre on Transnational Crime stated that the meeting’s objectives had been largely achieved, as most ministers expressed their support for the adoption of several documents reflecting their collective resolve to combat the threat of transnational crime.

“This includes addressing the emerging and evolving forms of transnational crime confronting Asian member states in the region,” he said.

The 19th AMMTC and its related meetings are being held in conjunction with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 under the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, reflecting the country’s commitment to building a safer and more prosperous ASEAN community.

-- BERNAMA