Seoul Regards Malaysia As Strategic Gateway To ASEAN—Ambassador

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 15 (Bernama) -- South Korea views Malaysia as a strategic gateway to ASEAN, reflecting the country’s growing importance in Seoul’s regional engagement as Southeast Asia continues to emerge as a major centre of global economic growth.

South Korean Ambassador to Malaysia, Yeo Seung-bae, said Malaysia’s central role within ASEAN, coupled with its strategic location linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans, makes it a natural partner for Korea’s outreach to the wider Southeast Asian region.

“As ASEAN consolidates its position as one of the world’s major economic blocs, Malaysia serves as an important entry point for Korea to deepen engagement with the region in a structured and sustainable manner,” he said in a Letter from the Embassy, published by South Korea-based e-daily news portal recently.

The ambassador noted that Malaysia’s geographical advantage, political stability and long-standing commitment to ASEAN centrality have strengthened its standing as a hub for trade, investment and regional connectivity.

He said Korea’s growing interest in Malaysia also reflects broader global shifts, as countries and companies seek to diversify supply chains amid geopolitical uncertainty, protectionist trends and intensifying competition among major powers.

“ASEAN’s young population, expanding consumer market and abundant resources present significant opportunities, and Malaysia is well positioned to connect Korean businesses and industries with these regional strengths,” Yeo said.

Beyond economic considerations, he highlighted Malaysia’s active and balanced diplomacy as a key factor enhancing its appeal as a partner. Malaysia’s ability to maintain constructive relations with all major powers, he said, has reinforced its credibility as a regional convenor and facilitator.

Yeo added that strengthening bilateral cooperation, including progress in trade agreements and sector-specific collaboration, aligns with Korea’s broader strategy to anchor its presence in Southeast Asia through trusted and reliable partners.

As ASEAN’s economic and strategic relevance continues to grow, he said, Korea’s emphasis on Malaysia underscores the belief that effective engagement with the region is best pursued through countries that combine connectivity, stability and diplomatic maturity.

For Malaysia, being regarded as a gateway to ASEAN reflects its aspiration to play a proactive regional role, leveraging its position to attract investment, expand partnerships and contribute to long-term regional prosperity and stability.

-- BERNAMA