Malaysia Pushes for Stronger Regional Integration Through BIMP-EAGA at Cebu Summit

CEBU: Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional cooperation through BIMP-EAGA, describing the initiative as a strategic platform to bridge development gaps while expanding trade, investment, digital connectivity and food security across the region.

At the Special BIMP-EAGA Summit held in Cebu on Wednesday (May 7), Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2035 must be driven by a spirit of unity, sustainable governance and a strong commitment to ensuring that remote and less-developed areas are not left behind in the development process.

He stressed that in the face of global challenges such as energy supply disruptions, climate change and economic uncertainty, the region must adopt a more integrated and bold approach to cooperation.

Anwar said Malaysia supports stronger cross-border energy connectivity, increased investment in renewable energy, and sustainable solutions such as solar power and mini-grid systems to ensure development benefits are shared fairly and inclusively, including for rural and inland communities.

He added that Vision 2035 is not merely a policy document, but a collective commitment to building a more resilient, competitive and humane region.

“With the enduring spirit of ASEAN, we will continue to support a development agenda that uplifts people, empowers local communities and promotes a more prosperous future for generations to come,” he said.

BIMP-EAGA, which brings together Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines’ eastern growth areas, continues to serve as a key mechanism for enhancing subregional cooperation and inclusive economic development across ASEAN’s less-developed regions.