DESARU: Malaysia as the chair of Asean is strongly advocating for the accession of Timor-Leste as the 11th member of the grouping, says Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
The Investment, Trade and Industry minister said that historically, Malaysia has played a pivotal role in the inclusion of several other Asean Member States (AMS) into this regional bloc.
"This year, once again we are prepared to take on a leading role in facilitating Timor- Leste’s application as the 11th member of Asean," he said during his welcoming dinner for the delegates for the 31st Asean Economic Ministers’ Retreat here.
Tengku Zafrul said the retreat was a crucial platform for fostering collaboration and dialogue among our Asean ministers.
"We must chart Asean’s economic trajectory, and carefully navigate our way in the changing world order, against major operational challenges.
"Malaysia’s Chairmanship happens to be at a pivotal point for Asean, at a point where Trump 2.0, geopolitical and geo-economic tensions, ongoing wars and conflicts, rising multipolarity, and climate change are collectively disrupting Asean’s sustainable growth," he stressed.
He added that Asean must stand united, to spearhead efforts aimed at creating greater growth opportunities for the region.
He said that against such a challenging backdrop, Malaysia has proposed a set of carefully curated Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs).
"We hope to receive all countries’ endorsement during the Ministers’ retreat tomorrow," he said, adding that it was important for Asean to collaborate closely so they could transform all these obstacles into opportunities for inclusive and sustainable prosperity across Asean.
Tengku Zafrul said that the PEDs reflect Malaysia's determination to collectively develop effective strategies that could leverage each country's unique strengths for Asean’s greater good.
"By working together, we have better negotiating leverage with our trading and investment partners, to foster innovation and build our member states’ capacity.
"This is key to creating a sustainable and resilient economic framework," he said.
He added this would also position Asean as a reliable and dynamic player in the global economy.
He added that one key narrative was to promote Asean as the world’s manufacturing and services hub.
"Also in a way that utilises our workers and natural resources fairly and equitably.
"This is why we have chosen inclusivity and sustainability as our chairmanship’s theme," he said.
Also present at the event was Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.
Guests were also treated to local delicacies and performances.
