Credibility key factors in bringing ASEAN’s voice to global stage

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto emphasized the critical importance of close ties betwee Malaysia, Indonesia, and other ASEAN partners to ensure the region’s voice is amplified globally amid rising geopolitical challenges.

Speaking alongside Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during a press briefing at Malaysia’s Petronas Towers on Monday, President Prabowo highlighted the shared history, culture, ethnicity, and religion between Malaysia and Indonesia as a foundation for enhanced strategic cooperation.

This unity, he noted, will strengthen ASEAN’s cohesion. Recognizing the complexities of global geopolitics, the two leaders agreed to continue consultations and collaboration with other ASEAN nations.

Prabowo stressed that only through ASEAN unity and strong bilateral cooperation could the voices of member states carry weight on the global stage, particularly with major powers.

He pointed to ASEAN’s significant potential, likening its 600 million-strong population to that of the European Union. ASEAN, known globally as a region of peace and growth for decades, has the opportunity to expand its influence further. He also pledged Indonesia’s full support for Malaysia as it assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025.

Prime Minister Anwar echoed the sentiment, noting that Malaysia and Indonesia aim to leverage their strengths to deepen cooperation across various sectors. He added that Malaysia is open to exploring all potential collaboration opportunities.

The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration between Malaysian oil giant Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and Indonesia’s PT Pertamina (Persero).

Additionally, they witnessed the signing of two letters of intent between Malaysia’s Axiata Group Bhd and Indonesia’s Sinar Mas, focusing on strategic cooperation in advanced 5G solutions, enterprise services, digital infrastructure, and fintech innovation.

According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Prabowo’s state visit underscores the strong and unique bond between the two nations, as well as their shared commitment to elevating bilateral ties for mutual prosperity and regional progress.

From January to November 2024, Malaysia-Indonesia bilateral trade totaled MYR106.06 billion ($23.2 billion), surpassing the MYR101.99 billion recorded during the same period in 2023.

In 2023, Indonesia was Malaysia’s eighth-largest global trading partner and its third-largest within ASEAN, with total trade valued at MYR111.21 billion ($25.4 billion).