Malaysia officially assumed the chairmanship of ASEAN for 2025 from Laos during the Closing Ceremony of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits on October 11. Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim received the gavel of leadership from the Prime Minister of Laos, Sonexay Siphandone, marking the beginning of Malaysia’s role as ASEAN Chair, effective January 1, 2025.

As part of the handover ceremony, Anwar unveiled Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship logo and theme for 2025, "Inclusivity and Sustainability."

This theme reflects Malaysia’s aspiration to foster closer regional cooperation based on the principles of inclusivity and sustainability, ensuring that no ASEAN member is left behind. Anwar also reaffirmed that ASEAN would continue to adhere to the principle of consensus-based decision-making.

Expanding ASEAN's Economic Horizon

Anwar emphasized the importance of integrating Timor-Leste into ASEAN, which is expected to expand the region’s economy and support ASEAN's broader vision. Additionally, ASEAN will continue to strengthen global economic partnerships, including through the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council + China Summit scheduled for next year.

Anwar reiterated his commitment to enhancing regional cooperation through dialogue and collaboration, working closely with all ASEAN member states and external partners to promote an open, inclusive, and rules-based regional architecture.

Charting ASEAN's Future Together

Anwar also reminded that ASEAN's journey, which began nearly six decades ago, was built on a vision of peace, stability, and prosperity. Today, ASEAN stands strong and ready for the future.

The year 2025 will be a significant milestone, marking 10 years since the establishment of the ASEAN Community and the start of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which will serve as a shared roadmap for the next two decades. Anwar reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to maintaining Southeast Asia as a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region.