KUALA LUMPUR, June 19 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is working actively towards upgrading existing trade agreements with ASEAN member states and dialogue partners, reinforcing its commitment to a more integrated and resilient regional economy, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said ASEAN has laid a solid foundation that has “guided us through disputes and crises, be it sovereignty and border issues, the scourge of pandemics, or climate disasters.”
“It has anchored our economic integration through initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, and in the future, the Digital Economic Framework Agreement. We will continue to place our trust in ASEAN’s founding principles and its enduring potential. But we must go further in strengthening our collective resolve,” he said in his keynote address at the 38th Asia-Pacific Roundtable: Recalibrating Asia’s Frontiers here today.
He said that as an agent of change, Malaysia as the ASEAN chair, must not only reflect ASEAN’s values, “we must attempt to shape them.”
Anwar stressed the need to “confront the hard truths about our regional architecture, renew our commitment to shared responsibilities, and strengthen cooperation beyond just rhetoric.
“We are preparing for a world wrought with challenges, and must enhance regional integration, develop additional economic ties and tap future catalysts of growth, including digital transformation, the exponential surge of artificial intelligence, and energy transition,” he said.
Addressing concerns over rising protectionism, Anwar noted that trade is fundamental to regional security. “Trade is not a peripheral issue, it is a pillar of regional stability. When trade weakens, divisions emerge.”
He highlighted the recent ASEAN-GCC-China Summit as a clear example of ASEAN’s convening strength and its commitment to harnessing economic synergies and fostering institutional collaboration.
Anwar said the conclusion of the Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) will unlock the vast potential of the regional digital economy and more importantly, greater intra-regional connectivity will create new opportunities for local businesses to expand their footprint across the region.”
As the global economy pivots toward sustainability, Anwar said ASEAN must adapt quickly to capitalise on emerging green opportunities and partnerships.
“We are intensifying efforts in energy transition and sustainable practices, including the development of investment guidelines and the ASEAN Power Grid,” he said.
Beyond its economic value, he emphasised that sustainable development is urgent due to the severe impacts of climate change on livelihoods.
“A truly people-centred ASEAN can only be realised through a greener and more resilient region,” Anwar added.
-- BERNAMA
