Malaysian prime minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, wants ASEAN to diversify its partnerships, enhance its economic resilience, tap into new investment opportunities and play a more proactive role in shaping global governance frameworks.

In order to make a bigger global impact, the regional grouping must expand its global engagement beyond its traditional partners and act with greater urgency to secure a prosperous future for all countries under ASEAN.

The Malaysian prime minister stated the decision to strengthen ties with China, the Gulf Cooperation Council and BRICS together with other emerging economies was not about choosing or taking sides.

Anwar added ASEAN’s economic resilience will also depend on how effectively the regional group navigates challenges such as supply chain disruptions and diversification, energy security and sustainability and the digital economy and AI.

In order for all ASEAN member states to fully harness the benefits of technological advancements, Anwar stated common standards must be established for data protection, having seamless crossborder digital trade and bridging the digital divide.

He stated that by fostering a secure, innovative and inclusive digital ecosystem, ASEAN can position itself at the very forefront of the global digital economy and drive sustainable growth and shared prosperity for the region.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE