Malaysia Pushes for Long-Term Vision and Deeper ASEAN Cooperation
Malaysia is calling for a more robust and sustained approach to the ASEAN chairmanship, advocating for enhanced cooperation among member states beyond the current one-year term. YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, emphasized the importance of adopting Malaysia’s ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which outlines a development guide for the next 20 years, during the “ASEAN in a Multipolar World” dialogue at the 25th Asia News Network Anniversary program.
Strengthening ASEAN Leadership
Liew stressed that the long-term development of ASEAN requires more than the current rotating chairmanship model. “We need political will from all member countries to strengthen the ASEAN Secretariat and establish a clear, unified mission,” Liew said. He further proposed that future chairs, such as the Philippines, which will assume the role next, should be involved in Malaysia’s activities to foster continuous cooperation.
Collaborative Future
The Malaysian government aims to institutionalize cooperation among the current, upcoming, and future ASEAN chairs, forming a cohesive leadership team. This approach will not only strengthen ASEAN leadership but also ensure smooth transitions and sustained progress in regional initiatives.
Media and Economic Integration
As part of Malaysia’s upcoming chairmanship, Liew announced plans to convene economic and business editors from across ASEAN in Kuala Lumpur in 2025. The goal is to enhance public understanding of ASEAN’s economic interconnectedness and to foster discussions on the region’s future narrative, citing the example of trade relations, such as onion imports from India to Malaysia, to illustrate ASEAN’s economic ties.
Raising ASEAN Standards
Liew also discussed the importance of shifting ASEAN’s focus from competing through wage suppression and tax cuts to fostering higher standards. “We must race to the top, building better societies and economies,” he remarked. By strengthening internal cooperation, ASEAN can meet the challenges of the global economy while ensuring sustainable and equitable growth across member states.
Looking Ahead
Malaysia will assume the ASEAN chairmanship from Laos at the ASEAN summit in October 2024. The country is committed to laying the groundwork for deeper cooperation and a more resilient ASEAN in the years to come.
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