The 46ᵗʰ ASEAN Summit officially opened in Kuala Lumpur, with Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim calling for stronger regional integration amid growing global uncertainty and rising protectionism.
Anwar emphasized that ASEAN’s stability and prosperity have long relied on an open, inclusive, and rules-based international system — a foundation now under threat from unilateral actions and strained multilateral trade frameworks, including new tariffs imposed by the United States.
As 2025 ASEAN Chair, Malaysia is hosting the summit under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” aiming to strengthen collective resilience and ensure equitable development despite shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Anwar also highlighted the significance of expanding ties beyond ASEAN, especially through the first-ever ASEAN–China–GCC summit, which brings together Southeast Asia, China — its largest trading partner — and the Gulf Cooperation Council to build new avenues of cooperation and stability.
With global trade facing increasing fragmentation, ASEAN leaders are expected to focus on shared strategies to protect their economies, boost connectivity, and reaffirm the group’s centrality in shaping a fair and resilient regional order.
