KUALA LUMPUR: Asean is not just not a meeting of heads of government but a collective neutral bloc which operates on consensus, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said neutrality and consensus among Asean nations are even more crucial now given ties with China.
He said that in Asean: "We share, we discuss and argue but we can achieve a consensus which is critical."
Anwar said that Asean, which is the most peaceful region in the world, could leverage these strengths to benefit the region.
"We want every country in Asean to benefit from both (economic and social successes) together.
"That is why we take this principle of neutrality to benefit from the experience of the West such as Europe and the United States.
"And now with China, we don't need to be apologetic," the Prime Minister said when launching the Asean-China Ministerial Roundtable on Construction and Housing 2024 here on Wednesday. (July 3).
He noted that Asean must synergise its neutrality and collectivism in light of China's unprecedented rise.
"More so now since we have established excellent strategic and comprehensive partnerships, including between Malaysia and China.
"We must ensure that this benefits both Asean and China," he said.
Anwar said he was reiterating the point about Asean's neutrality in recent speeches as he had been "questioned personally" on it several times.
"As a region, we have decided that the principle of neutrality is pertinent and important – not only to advance our integration as a unit but also to advance our nation," he added.
Malaysia will assume the Asean chairmanship in 2025.
Anwar also launched the 23rd International Architecture, Interior Design and Building Exhibition held in conjunction with the event.
He also witnessed the exchange of letters of interest from PR1MA Communications Snd Bhd and Huawei Technologies (M) Sdn Bhd to use Huawei's smart devices in PR1MA developments.
Also present at the event were Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming and China's Housing and Urban-Rural Development Minister Ni Hong.
