Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of ASEAN maintaining its role as a principled platform that upholds justice and international law while advocating for the oppressed.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Prime Minister highlighted Malaysia’s commitment, as the ASEAN Chair for 2025, to bolster regional cohesion and guide the region’s trajectory towards 2045. He noted that ASEAN’s foundation was not one of ease, but rather formed through adversity and a strong dedication to dialogue-a spirit that must be meticulously maintained.

Amidst global geopolitical challenges spanning from Gaza, Ukraine, Myanmar, to the Middle East, Anwar cautioned against yielding to the rhetoric of power or principles that are selectively upheld based on current interests. He underscored the necessity of reinforcing ASEAN’s internal strength through enhanced intra-regional trade, increased cross-border investments, and accelerated regional economic integration.

Anwar stated that these measures are strategic necessities to ensure stronger resilience. He also asserted that ASEAN will not allow its decisions to be influenced by external powers, but will instead shape its own destiny with a unified voice, courage, and unwavering determination. “This is Malaysia’s commitment. This is ASEAN’s voice,” he affirmed.