The Plenary Hall at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre was transformed into a diplomatic hub this morning, as leaders from around the world gathered for the 47th Asean Summit.
Leading the opening ceremony was Malaysian Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim – this year’s Asean Chair – welcoming the world leaders to the multicultural nation of 34 million people.
Timor-Leste’s formal entry as Asean’s 11th Member State took centre stage at the opening ceremony, marking the nation’s 14-year path from initial application in 2011 to full membership – a significant milestone for a nation with 1.3 million people to join a region of over 680 million people.
The region has seen its share of challenges – from Myanmar’s unresolved crisis to the military standoff between Cambodia and Thailand in July.
In his opening address, Anwar said as Chair this year, Malaysia sought to realign Asean’s priorities – to keep the association resilient, relevant, and responsive to the times.
“Together with fellow Member States, we have worked to foster the conditions for peace in Myanmar. We know this requires patience and persistence, and an honest appreciation of realities on the ground,” said Anwar.
“Guided by the Five-Point Consensus, Asean has drawn on every available channel and partner to reduce violence and ease the humanitarian crisis. But lasting peace cannot be imposed. It must be Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led. Only then will reconciliation endure.
“The relative peace and prosperity that Asean has enjoyed for nearly six decades are not self-sustaining. They must be renewed through cooperation and strengthened by shared purpose. That is why Asean is deepening economic linkages, widening trade, and enhancing competitiveness.”
In late July, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire. Later today, US President Donald Trump, who arrived in Kuala Lumpur this morning, is set to sign the peace deal.
Anwar added that the upgraded Asean Trade in Goods Agreement, to be launched at this summit, would create a more seamless regional market – unlocking scale, efficiency and opportunity for businesses and workers alike.
“We are also advancing the Asean Power Grid (APG). The new APG Financing Facility will help bridge funding gaps and accelerate our transition towards cleaner, more secure energy.
“In parallel, we are moving forward on the Asean Blue Economy Framework and the Regional Electric Vehicle Ecosystem – building the foundations of sustainable industry and green growth.”
He said with Asean’s digital economy expected to double to US$2 trillion by 2030, the Member States have agreed to fast-track the Asean Digital Economic Framework Agreement by 2026.
“Rising protectionism and shifting supply chains remind us that resilience depends on adaptability. Asean must not stand still. We must have the courage to forge new partnerships and the foresight to deepen existing ones,” he added.
