BANGI, Feb 22 — Malaysia’s 2025 Asean chairmanship could boost the country’s capacity as an investment, tourism, and trade destination, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said several strategic sectors, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, data centres, new energy, agriculture, and food technology will be prioritised to enhance the country’s economic growth.
Speaking at a press conference after the Madani Government Retreat here, Anwar, who is also finance minister, expressed satisfaction with Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship preparations and the strong commitment of all parties to ensure its success.
He also revealed that during last week’s meeting, several proposals were presented to ensure the government delivers its best while enhancing the country’s image on the global stage.
Anwar said that as a trading nation, Malaysia must seize the opportunity of the bloc chairmanship to strengthen trade efforts, as the Asean Summit would be the first to involve the Gulf Cooperation Council and China.
Anwar said Malaysia is also committed to holding the Asean-United States Special Summit as part of efforts to expand the country’s trade scope.
“But what is special is that at every Asean Summit, there will be large-scale exhibitions and conferences organised not only by the government but also in collaboration with media companies and major global corporations from Saudi Arabia, China, the US, and, of course, Asean,” he said.
Anwar said South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who will be making a working visit to Malaysia soon, also expressed Africa’s support for Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship.
Under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, Malaysia will host over 300 Asean-related meetings, programmes, and summits throughout the year.
Malaysia previously chaired Asean in 1977, 1997, 2005, and 2015.
— Bernama
