Malaysia to Champion ASEAN’s Central Role at Upcoming RCEP Summit
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 21: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening ASEAN’s central role in driving the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), ahead of the 5th RCEP Leaders’ Meeting scheduled for next week.
Speaking at the closing of the DHL GoTrade Summit 2025 in Kuala Lumpur today, Anwar, who also serves as finance minister, said that RCEP represents more than just an economic pact.
“RCEP is a strategic affirmation that open regionalism remains the pathway to shared prosperity,” he said.
Anwar stressed that Malaysia envisions RCEP as a platform that benefits not only large multinational corporations but also small and medium enterprises (SMEs), workers, and local communities.
“The success of RCEP will depend on our ability to translate commitments into opportunities by addressing non-tariff barriers, enhancing trade facilitation, and ensuring that the digital economy, green transition, and services sectors are fully integrated into the framework,” he added.
The 5th RCEP Leaders’ Meeting, to be held on October 27, will take place on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit from October 26 to 28.
Highlighting ASEAN’s growing influence in the global economy, Anwar noted that the region has become a key link in the global supply chain, serving as both a manufacturing hub and a dynamic market of 680 million people.
He added that within five years, ASEAN is projected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy, emphasizing the need to uphold openness, unity, and fair trade amid rising global uncertainties.
“This growth is not accidental it reflects our shared determination to sustain free and fair trade while leveraging our collective strengths,” Anwar said.
Reiterating Malaysia’s ambitions, the prime minister said the country aims to solidify its position as a trusted investment hub while ensuring that local enterprises and start-ups also gain from regional cooperation.
“Malaysia’s aspiration is clear we want progress that is inclusive, sustainable, and shared,” he concluded.
— Voice of Malaysia News