CEBU: Malaysia is committed to strengthening regional cooperation through the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) to narrow development gaps and expand trade, investment and food security for the well-being of the people.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who attended the BIMP-EAGA Special Summit in Cebu, the Philippines, on Thursday (May 7), said BIMP-EAGA was a strategic platform.
He said the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2035 must be driven by the spirit of togetherness, sustainable governance and the determination to ensure remote and underdeveloped regions were not left behind in the development mainstream.
"As the world faces challenges such as energy supply crises, climate change and global economic uncertainties, the region must adopt a more integrated and bold approach.
"Therefore, Malaysia supports the strengthening of cross-border energy connectivity, investments in renewable energy and sustainable solutions such as solar and mini-grid systems.
"(This is) so that the benefits of development can be enjoyed fairly and inclusively by all communities, including those in rural areas,” he said in a Facebook post on Thursday.
BIMP-EAGA was established in 1994 with the aim of accelerating inclusive economic growth, development and prosperity in less developed areas within its member countries.
Anwar added that the BIMP-EAGA Vision 2035 was not merely a policy document, but a reflection of the shared determination to build a region that was more resilient, competitive and people-centred.
"With the ASEAN spirit continuing to thrive, we will continue supporting a development agenda that upholds human dignity, empowers local communities and fosters a more prosperous future for generations to come,” he said.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., as Asean Chair this year, said discussions at the summit highlighted key programmes and projects that are now making a significant impact on local communities through job creation, stronger connectivity and expanded opportunities, particularly in subregional growth areas.
Marcos said the summit renewed the collective resolve to translate vision into action and planning into lasting impact. — Bernama
