TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed optimism that a common position on several key issues will be reached at the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur this week.
"I am very optimistic because we have reached a consensus on several important issues," Anwar Ibrahim stated in a special interview with the media in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, last Sunday local time, as quoted by Antara.
He noted that agreements on these issues were forged through productive discussions held at both the heads of state and ministerial levels across various sectors. Anwar specified that the agreed-upon common positions include ASEAN's response to the implementation of U.S. import tariffs, the advancement of ASEAN digitalization and connectivity, the progress of Timor Leste's accession to ASEAN, and efforts to resolve the Myanmar crisis.
Another significant area of consensus, he added, is the integration of the ASEAN Power Grid electricity network system and enhanced trade among ASEAN countries. "We are observing an increase in trade among ASEAN member countries. I believe, generally, there is an improvement compared to previous periods," said Anwar Ibrahim.
He also acknowledged the support of Laos, the previous ASEAN Chair, for Malaysia's current chairmanship. Anwar hopes that the current progress can be sustained by the Philippines when it assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026.
Regarding the relationship with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Anwar indicated that ASEAN aims to strengthen inter-regional cooperation across various fields, considering Southeast Asia's significant economic potential and well-preserved regional peace.
ASEAN will also advocate for stronger collaboration with China, particularly in trade and investment, while navigating dynamic geopolitical landscapes. As this year's ASEAN Chair, Malaysia will also host the inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit and the second ASEAN-GCC Summit, in addition to the 46th ASEAN Summit on May 26-27, 2025.
Editor's Choice: Malaysia Condemns Double Standards on Israel's Genocide in Gaza
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Malaysia Condemns Double Standards on Israel's Genocide in Gaza
20 jam lalu
Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan on Sunday, May 25, 2025, condemned Israel's 'atrocities' in Gaza
Indonesia Alerts ASEAN to the Risks of Transnational Crime
21 jam lalu
Indonesia has warned that transnational crimes pose a threat to the entire ASEAN community formation project.
Malaysia Living Costs: A Breakdown for International Students
2 hari lalu
Before embarking on your study abroad journey, it's essential to understand Malaysia's living costs to avoid unexpected financial strain.
Indonesia and Croatia to Bolster Bilateral Ties, Including in Football
2 hari lalu
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Croatian Ambassador Neboja Koharovi talk bilateral ties, including in the field of football.
Indonesia to Decide 2025 Eid al-Adha Date at Isbat Meeting on May 27
3 hari lalu
The Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs has scheduled an isbat meeting for Tuesday, May 27, to determine this year's Eid al-Adha.
Indonesia Records US$5.9bn of Fisheries Export 2024; ASEAN, U.S. Among Main Destinations
4 hari lalu
The export value of fisheries products from Indonesia reached US$5.9 billion in 2024.
10 Top Private Universities in Malaysia with High Employability Rates
4 hari lalu
There has been a moderate leap of international students admitted to various top private universities in Malaysia for some good reasons.
Indonesia, Thailand Agree to Boost Cooperation on Three Key Sectors
6 hari lalu
Prabowo and Thailand PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra have agreed to strengthen Indonesia-Thailand cooperation in three main sectors.
Indonesian Authorities Thwart Illegal Migration of 26 Indonesian Workers to Malaysia
7 hari lalu
Police in North Sumatra have intercepted the illegal departure of 26 potential Indonesian migrant workers to Malaysia using a barge.
Bangkok-Kuala Lumpur Direct Train Set to Launch in Late 2025
9 hari lalu
Travelers looking to journey between Bangkok, Thailand, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, will soon have a more convenient option.
