Melaka: Malaysia hopes that regional cooperation in combating transnational crime will be further strengthened to protect lives, restore dignity, and give hope to affected communities. Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stated that the mission could not be carried out by any single nation, but required a strong sense of solidarity among ASEAN member states.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin Nasution emphasized the importance of solidarity, cooperation, and trust among ASEAN countries. He quoted a Malay proverb, ‘berat sama dipikul, ringan sama dijinjing’, to highlight the essence of ASEAN. He made these remarks during his welcoming address at the Gala Dinner of the 19th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (AMMTC) and its related meetings held in Melaka. The event was also attended by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.

Saifuddin Nasution expressed his gratitude to the state of Melaka for hosting the event, praising its spirit of openness and cooperation. He remarked that Melaka, with its historical significance as a meeting point of the world, continues to be a vibrant hub, welcoming ASEAN and its partners to address the challenges of the modern era.

He further emphasized that ASEAN is about more than just documents or declarations; it is about its people, friendships, and the assurance that member states will support each other in times of crisis as neighbors, partners, and friends. Saifuddin Nasution noted Malaysia’s pride in chairing the AMMTC this year, viewing it as a privilege to work alongside ASEAN nations in the shared mission of building a safer, more secure region for future generations.