KUALA LUMPUR: The transportation sector has emerged as a key driver of job creation and economic growth within the ASEAN region, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof. Speaking at the 30th ASEAN Transport Ministers Meeting here today, he noted that coordinated regional and national programmes to enhance transport infrastructure have not only improved connectivity but also created numerous job opportunities for local and cross-border skilled labour.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadillah highlighted the importance of efficient transport systems, stating that they provide economic and social opportunities, resulting in positive multiplier effects such as investments, trade, tourism, construction, town planning, and other social developments. Over recent years, significant milestones have been achieved in the transportation sector, particularly in infrastructure and policy frameworks.

Fadillah, who also serves as the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, pointed to initiati
ves like the ASEAN Single Window, ASEAN Cross-Border Transport Agreements, and the ASEAN Highway Network as critical in enhancing regional integration. He emphasized that these achievements reflect ASEAN’s collective vision and dedication.

Commenting on today’s meeting, which focused on strengthening collaboration and partnerships, Fadillah noted the significant progress that has transformed the transportation sector, delivering a substantial impact on communities across ASEAN. He cited the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link as a major infrastructure initiative with implications for transportation, economic integration, regional cooperation, and sustainability.

Fadillah stressed that transportation developments often lead to increased job creation, higher productivity, and the expansion of local businesses. He further noted that the next phase of strategies for the sector must address global megatrends, prioritizing sustainability, environmental issues, digital transformation, and artific
ial intelligence.

He insisted that ASEAN must begin to design future transport policy frameworks and infrastructure capable of handling these revolutionary changes, emphasizing the importance of including ASEAN’s vulnerable communities in future transport policies, infrastructure, and facilities.

Meanwhile, Minister of Transport Anthony Loke, in his earlier speech, remarked that as the chair of the meeting, Malaysia envisions renewed commitments to a wide array of ASEAN transport initiatives and an expanded focus on emerging issues and areas of innovation. He explained the remarkable strides made under the Kuala Lumpur Transport Strategic Plan 2016-2025, laying the foundation for a future where every ASEAN citizen benefits from seamless connectivity.