KUALA LUMPUR, July 9 — Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has urged Asean to embrace the Asean Community Vision 2045 as the region navigates increasing global uncertainty, warning that only foresight and strategy can ensure stability and progress.
He said the vision that charts the bloc’s direction for the next two decades reaffirms that the region’s destiny lies in Asean’s hands.
“To overcome the turbulence of the coming years, we must think long term. It will not do to simply put one foot in front of the other.
“We must chart a path and lay down its stones. Our future will not be shaped by external forces, but by our own collective resolve,” he said in his opening remarks at the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting plenary session here today.
He emphasised the need for a seamless transition from “Asean 2025: Forging Ahead Together” to “Asean 2045: Our Shared Future”, with all sectoral bodies and mechanisms aligning their priorities accordingly.
“Above all, I reiterate, we must be the speakers, and not the spoken for,” he added, underscoring the importance of Asean’s centrality and independence in international affairs.
Mohamad also said that Malaysia’s unequivocal position on recent geopolitical crises, particularly in the Middle East, condemning Israel’s military actions against Iran.
“In Gaza, Israel’s brutal starvation strategy continues to go unchecked.
“Emboldened by this impunity, Israel’s endless violence has expanded to other countries in the Middle East, with its latest offensive attacks on Iran. Malaysia absolutely condemns these atrocities,” he said.
On regional issues, Mohamad reaffirmed Asean’s commitment to supporting a peaceful resolution in Myanmar.
“Asean will continue to support the path towards a Myanmar-owned, and Myanmar-led, peaceful resolution to the crisis in the country. Delayed peace in Myanmar prolongs the sufferings of the people and threatens the region’s security,” he added.
As geopolitical tensions intensify and multilateralism faces growing threats, Mohamad urged Asean to hold firm in unity, promoting dialogue and diplomacy rather than division.
“Asean must be the beacon of hope, be the voice of reason, and continue to be a platform for cooperation and prosperity,” he said.
— Bernama
