Malaysian PM highlights ASEAN’s unity amid global economic strain
While ASEAN member states aim to maintain trade ties with the US, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim affirmed the bloc’s determination to act collectively to safeguard its economic interests.
Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – The ASEAN Investment Conference 2025 opened in Kuala Lumpur on April 8, on the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting (AFMGM).
Delivering the keynote address, Malaysian Prime Minister and Finance Minister Anwar Ibrahim noted that the global trading system is facing intense pressure following the US' recent announcement of new import tariffs. While ASEAN member states aim to maintain trade ties with the US, he affirmed the bloc’s determination to act collectively to safeguard its economic interests.
This, he said, involves proactive engagement with the US to secure mutually beneficial outcomes, while at the same time diversifying and deepening trade relationships with major markets in the European Union, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
Amid growing uncertainty, rising protectionism and shifting supply chains, ASEAN stands as a “beacon of hope and positivity”, Anwar said, citing the bloc’s continued commitment to openness, cooperation, and institutional stability.
“Our vision for ASEAN is a prosperous, sustainable and inclusive region. This will require political will, serious capital, fortitude — and a strong dose of good fortune. It also calls for swift progress on sub-regional initiatives,” he added.
The Malaysian leader stressed that ASEAN’s true strength lies in its durability, not drama. Since its establishment in 1967, the region has weathered wars, crises and political upheavals, and today it has what it takes to respond to new challenges such as Washington’s tariff moves.
𒐪 US President Donald Trump’s tariff decision is not the first threat to multilateralism — nor will it be the last, Anwar said, reiterating that but if ASEAN remains calm, open, pragmatic and united, it may yet stand as one of the last champions of a global order that thrives on cooperation./.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim urged members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) not to underestimate the issue, particularly amid the current global economic and political uncertainties.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders will also meet to discuss the member states’ solutions to address and mitigate potential disruptions to regional trade, supply chain networks, and cross-border investments, the MITI said.
Since April 3, right after US President Donald Trump’s announcement, Party and State leaders have engaged in various meetings, working sessions, and phone calls to discuss and find solutions to remove the tariff barriers imposed by the US government, and ensure the harmonisation of interests for both sides.
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