KUALA LUMPUR: Asean must identify partners that can support efforts in safeguarding the region, says Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
The Foreign Minister stressed its importance, saying it is imperative for Asean institutions to remain fit for purpose, forward looking and inclusive.
Mohamad said Malaysia, as the Asean chair, has identified priorities to further consolidate Asean collaboration in areas such as dialogue and strategic trust, transnational crime, defence and legal cooperation.
“Malaysia is committed to working closely with all Asean member states to ensure our community remains cohesive, responsive and future-ready,” he said.
In his remarks, the minister said the meeting was also set to review the progress, in the implementation of the APSC 2025 Blueprint, and preparations for its end-term review, adding that the region now stands at an important juncture.
“We face an increasingly complex regional and global landscape, shaped by heightened geopolitical competition, economic uncertainty and transnational challenges that expose the fragility of present world order,” he said.
Mohamad said the Asean region is also facing increasing security threats, with the rise of cyber crimes like online scams and job scams.
“In recent years, Asean has increased efforts to curtail these threats. Nevertheless, crime syndicates have repeatedly demonstrated their capacity to relocate or rebuild their operations,” he said, adding that addressing these issues comprehensively is necessary for the well-being of Asean citizens, regional security and prosperity.
“Therefore, it is vital that Asean enhances regional cooperation, legal harmonisation and information-sharing mechanisms among its member states,” he said.
Malaysia will host the 46th Asean Summit and Related Summits from May 26 to 27.
Wisma Putra is taking the lead in organising these summits under Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship this year with the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’.
Two other high-level meetings – the 2nd Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and the Asean-GCC-China Economic Summit – will also be held.
