KUALA LUMPUR: Asean nations must strengthen cooperation in tackling cross-border crime as increasingly complex security challenges continue to affect societies and people across the region, says Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
He said Malaysia remains deeply concerned over the far-reaching implications of various security-related issues that pose 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,” he said in his opening remarks at the 30th Asean Political-Security Community Council Meeting here yesterday.
He said this underscores the importance of adaptability in addressing the challenges of an ever-evolving global security landscape.
“Such an environment, marked by geopolitical and geo-economic competition, economic uncertainty and transnational threats, highlights the need for Asean to stay united, consistent and forward-looking.
“Strengthening our mechanisms of cooperation across defence, law enforcement and legal institutions will be critical to safeguarding regional peace and stability,” he added.
He said Asean law ministers are committed to promoting arbitration and mediation mechanisms aligned with international standards to support regional economic integration.
He said the long-awaited Asean Extradition Treaty is in its final stage of completion and is expected to be signed next month.
“The recent establishment of the Asean Prosecutors/Attorney General Meeting will further strengthen regional collaboration and coordination in prosecution and the fight against transnational crimes,” he said.
On human rights, Mohamad said the Asean Intergovernmental Commission on Human Rights (AICHR) has championed issues such as the right to a safe, clean, healthy and sustainable environment, and the right to peace.
“AICHR also advanced the Asean Guideline on the Implementation of the Non-Punishment Principle for the 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 uphold human dignity, ensure justice and protection for victims, and align regional practices with international human rights and anti-trafficking standards.
“As Malaysia’s chairmanship of Asean this year draws to a close, we remain steadfast in our 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,” he added.
The 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits will conclude on Oct 28.
