GYEONGJU (South Korea): Malaysia's balanced approach, maintaining close ties with both the United States and China, has successfully positioned the country as a bridge connecting various economic blocs in the region, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
In a statement Thursday (Oct 30) night, the Prime Minister said this strategy, anchored in regional cooperation through Asean and platforms like the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), is deemed appropriate in the face of increasingly fragmented and uncertain global trade.
Earlier, Anwar, who arrived here for a working visit in conjunction with the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting (AELM), received the 2025 Annual Report of the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) from ABAC Malaysia chairman Datuk Ruben Emir Gnanalingam.
He said that he would review the report to incorporate its insights into policy discussions throughout the AELM, particularly in advocating for agendas focused on public welfare, economic justice, and balanced regional development.
"This report gathers the views and aspirations of the business community across the Asia-Pacific economies for APEC Economic Leaders, with the goal of strengthening inclusive and sustainable growth, enhancing business competitiveness, and ensuring that prosperity benefits all levels of society.
"The report's call for rule-based open trade aligns with Malaysia's neutral and pragmatic engagement policy," said Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister.
He is on a three-day working visit starting Thursday night.
Anwar is scheduled to deliver Malaysia's official statement during the APEC Economic Leaders' Dialogue with Guests, emphasising the importance of inclusivity in strengthening supply chains, digital economic development, and regional cooperation for sustainable development.
During the AELM, the Prime Minister is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with several APEC economic representatives.
Additionally, Anwar will meet potential investors from Namhae Chemical Corp and JS Link separately, as well as representatives from Nvidia and YTL Power.
The Prime Minister will then attend a dinner with APEC Economic Leaders before concluding the day with a press conference. - Bernama
