KUALA LUMPUR: Asean nations should strengthen cooperation in tackling cross-border crime, as the increasingly complex security-related issues have deeply affected societies and people in the region, said Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
The Foreign Minister said Malaysia, as chair of Asean this year, remains deeply concerned over the far-reaching implications of various security-related issues, which poses a direct threat to the region’s economic resilience and national security.
“This reminds us of the need to strengthen cooperation, coordination and regional efforts to counter transnational crime,” said Mohamad in his opening remarks at the 30th Asean Political-Security Community (APSC) Council Meeting on Saturday (Oct 25).
Mohamad also said this underscores the importance of adaptability in addressing the challenges of this ever-evolving global security landscape.
“Such an environment, marked by geopolitical and geo-economic competition, economic uncertainty and transnational threats, highlight the need for Asean to stay united, consistent and forward-looking.
“Strengthening our mechanism of cooperation across defence, law enforcement, and legal institutions, will be critical to safeguarding regional peace and stability,” said Mohamad.
Meanwhile, Mohamad said Asean law ministers are committed in promoting arbitration, and mediation mechanisms, aligned with international standards to support regional economic integration.
According to Mohamad, the long-awaited Asean Extradition treaty is at its final stage of completion and it is expected to be signed next month.
“The recent establishment of the Asean Prosecutors/Attorney-General Meeting (APAGM) will further strengthen regional collaboration and coordination, in prosecution and the fight against transnational crimes,” said Mohamad.
On human rights, Mohamad said the Asean Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) championed issues such as the right to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment and right to peace.
“AICHR also advanced the Asean Guideline on the Implementation of the Non-Punishment Principle, for Protection of Victims of Trafficking in Persons, as a collective step to address injustices among victims of trafficking,” he said.
Mohamad said this reaffirms Asean’s collective commitment to upholding human dignity, ensuring justice and protection for victims, and aligning regional practices with international human rights and anti-trafficking standards.
“Under the legal scope, the Asean Law Ministers are committed to promoting arbitration and mediation mechanisms, aligned with international standards to support regional economic integration,” he added.
Mohamad said as Malaysia’s chairmanship of Asean this year draws to a close, she remains steadfast in its commitment to work closely with all member states and partners to carry forward this endeavour.
“With unity of purpose, I am confident that Asean will continue to serve as a lasting force for peace, stability, and shared prosperity, both within our region and beyond,” added Mohamad.
The 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits will conclude on Oct 28.
