Malaysian PM proposes measures to handle global issues

ASEAN can overcome the challenge of rising geopolitical divisions through shared leadership and a neutral policy, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said on Monday.

At the Khazanah Megatrends Forum, he highlighted that ASEAN faces growing geopolitical tensions that threaten the region’s stability, stating through strong neutrality and shared leadership, the bloc could overcome these challenges.

He called for adherence to a rules-based order, both regionally and internationally, as a means to safeguard ASEAN’s stability, while pointing out that the region's strength lies in its ability to mediate and navigate through diplomacy, a strategy that Malaysia would champion as the ASEAN chair in 2025.

Looking beyond Asean, Anwar expressed Malaysia’s intention to deepen partnerships with the BRICS bloc, further strengthening South-South cooperation.

He noted that expanding relationships with emerging economies would not only benefit Malaysia but also fortify ASEAN’s role on the global stage.

He reaffirmed Malaysia’s stance on the importance of fair global governance, calling for a revision of the global financial architecture to ensure equity and fairness for developing nations.

Anwar also highlighted Malaysia’s focus on addressing key regional challenges such as trade, climate change and technological innovation.

Furthermore, he called for ASEAN to adopt a forward-thinking approach that leverages technological advancements and fosters innovation across the region.