LIMA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the critical importance of strengthening cooperation within the Global South, calling for the harnessing of non-traditional alliances with a clear emphasis on fostering equitable growth and development. Speaking at the various platforms of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders Week (AELW) here, he drove home the point that the forum must not only reinvent itself but also set the golden standard in its ability to absorb economic shocks and climate challenges.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stressed that global disruptions are not a temporary state but rather the new normal. He emphasized that APEC economies must transition from reactive measures to proactive and resilient economic cooperation. He argued that by forging innovative partnerships and promoting inclusive trade policies, APEC’s 21 member economies can create a more equitable and resilient economic landscape that benefits all members, regardless of size or
economic stature.

Anwar suggested that besides BRICS, which Malaysia is now a partner country, the forum should explore non-traditional alliances such as with the African Union and Latin American nations. He highlighted that partnerships with ASEAN, the African Union, and cross-border digital networks can redefine global resilience.

During his visit to Peru, Anwar was accompanied by Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz, along with other senior government officials. At the APEC CEO Summit, he spoke extensively on technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), stressing the importance of bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal opportunities for urban and rural communities.

Anwar also took the opportunity to reaffirm Malaysia’s commitment to attracting high-quality investments and fostering a favorable environment for business growth. He emphasized the government’s openness to feedback and its willingness to undertake major i
nitiatives to support investment opportunities.

In a significant bilateral recognition, Anwar was conferred the prestigious Order of the Sun of Peru, ‘El Sol del Peru’, by Peruvian President Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra. This award, established soon after Peru’s independence from Spain in 1821, is the oldest civilian honor in the Americas.

Anwar’s visit to Peru has generated potential exports worth RM1.24 billion (US$0.3 billion), particularly in high-potential sectors through the efforts of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE). He noted that Peruvian companies have expressed interest in importing Malaysian goods such as steel and glass construction materials, medical equipment, palm oil, chemicals, and food and beverage products.

In addition to participating in the APEC meetings, Anwar held bilateral discussions with several leaders, including Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, and Hong Kong’s chief executive John Lee Ka-chiu.

APEC is an in
ter-governmental forum for 21 member economies in the Pacific Rim that promotes free trade across the Asia-Pacific region, representing nearly 40 percent of the world’s population and over 60 percent of the global economy. Malaysia is a founding member of APEC, which includes economies such as Australia, Japan, the United States, and China, among others. South Korea is set to chair APEC in 2025.