Kuala Lumpur: ASEAN must prioritise poverty eradication and the protection of vulnerable communities as central pillars of its development agenda, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. In an interview with ASEAN media ahead of the 46th ASEAN Summit, Anwar stressed that economic growth must lead to tangible improvements in people’s welfare, social protection, and human dignity for the region’s people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized that the issue of poverty holds personal significance for him. He stated that in Malaysia, the aim is for zero poverty among the hardcore poor. Although poverty may resurface, he believes the country has no reason to allow this and is committed to resolving it. He pointed out that economic development must translate into real benefits for people’s lives and welfare.

Anwar challenged ASEAN to act on its repeated pledges about poverty, inequality, and development gaps in joint declarations. He mentioned the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on ASEAN 2025, which outlines poverty eradication and inclusive growth as core goals, urging ASEAN leaders to maintain momentum on these fronts.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the need to address systematic inequalities and prevent vulnerabilities like scams and human trafficking, which disproportionately affect the region’s poor. He noted effective cooperation from Laos and Cambodia in tackling these issues through ASEAN mechanisms.

Looking ahead to ASEAN 2040 and beyond, Anwar stressed that the region’s success will depend on good governance, deeper integration, and collective action. He said ASEAN’s centrality and non-aligned stance allow it to trade and cooperate with partners, including BRICS nations, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and China.

Anwar expressed optimism for the current summit, noting consensus around key issues such as the ASEAN power grid, digital connectivity, and intra-regional trade. He commended the spirit of cooperation among ASEAN leaders and the professionalism shown in summit preparation.

While acknowledging logistical challenges like road closures, Anwar stated these were necessary for ensuring security and honoring the presence of important guests. The 46th ASEAN Summit is being held under Malaysia’s 2025 Chairmanship theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability,’ marking Malaysia’s fifth time chairing ASEAN after previous terms in 1977, 1997, 2005, and 2015.