Asean sec-gen praises Malaysia's leadership during turbulent year

JAKARTA: Asean secretary-general Dr Kao Kim Hourn has commended Malaysia’s leadership for steering the regional bloc with readiness and foresight through one of its most challenging periods, citing Kuala Lumpur’s firm commitment to unity, economic integration and regional stability.

Malaysia assumed the Asean Chairmanship 2025 from Laos on Jan 1 under the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, pledging to strengthen economic cooperation, safeguard stability, and advance Asean’s long-term vision.