Malaysia has leadership based on civil principles, said PM

KUALA LUMPUR: In preparation as the chairman of ASEAN 2025, Malaysia will strive to lead it by highlighting leadership based on high moral values ​​as emphasized in the principle of a Civilized Malaysia.

According to Sinar Harian, the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said, it requires a civil and inclusive approach that upholds connectivity.

He said, in upholding Malaysia’s principle of neutrality and cooperation, the ideal Madani shows that it is possible to act respectfully while being an active player in shaping the Southeast Asian region.

“Indeed for Malaysia, ASEAN is more than a pillar of our foreign policy, it is also a multiplied power, and a very valuable asset to implement our agency,” he said in his keynote speech at the 37th Asia Pacific Roundtable (APR) here.

Anwar also emphasized the importance for the regional block to start dealing with some of its mechanisms such as the ASEAN Regional Forum, the ASEAN Plus meeting and the East Asia Summit which are seen as not being used fully, while at one point it was quite powerful.

The Prime Minister said, it is also necessary to emphasize the fact that the future development of ASEAN develops together with its member countries, their national interests, and what can be achieved collectively by the grouping.

“In the current uncertain atmosphere, it is important to redouble our efforts towards further strengthening ASEAN, becoming the main platform for managing regional affairs,” he said, adding that the regional block needs to move from mere rhetoric to concrete action and focus on finding a way to convey the aspirations.

“Regarding the crisis in Myanmar, Anwar said, Malaysia will work with other ASEAN member countries and Dialogue Partners who have influence over Myanmar, to encourage peace, more effective humanitarian mechanisms and the political involvement of all relevant stakeholders in the country.