PETALING JAYA, Oct 9 — Asean nations have been urged to continue nurturing and sustaining the spirit of tolerance, empathy and inclusivity in facing increasingly complex global challenges.
Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said that as the world grapples with rising extremism, oppression, and narrow-minded ideologies, the bloc must serve as a counterbalance to these negative forces by emphasising human values and universal unity.
“Asean must act as a balance to these negative forces by maintaining tolerance, empathy and inclusivity as the foundation of regional solidarity,” he said in his speech during the Gala Dinner in conjunction with the 34th Asean Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Meeting at Sunway Resort Hotel last night.
Amirudin noted that Southeast Asia has long served as an example to the world of how people of diverse races, religions, and cultures can live harmoniously under a shared aspiration for peace and prosperity.
“This is especially important today, as when we look to other continents like Europe, North America, or parts of Africa, we witness worsening patterns of oppression and cruelty. Yet the Asean story is different.
“In this challenging global climate, Asean citizens must serve as a balancing force against the global tide leaning towards fascist ideologies and the tendency to treat ‘the other’ as the enemy,” he said.
The history of Southeast Asia demonstrates that diversity is not a barrier to progress, but a source of strength that shapes the region’s identity.
“Selangor itself reflects the spirit of unity in diversity. The state stands as an example of how heritage and modernity can move in tandem, with tradition catalysing innovation,” Amirudin said.
The Menteri Besar noted that regional economic growth must be grounded in justice and human dignity, not on a zero-sum competition between nations.
“Economic growth is not a zero-sum game. We need not bring down our neighbours to rise. Instead, progress must be anchored in Asian values that honour humanity and preserve culture,” he said.
Amirudin also called on the ASCC to continue serving as a key platform to strengthen regional cooperation through the sharing of values and cultural heritage.
“Asean can demonstrate that we are capable of living in peace and harmony based on our own values.
“Tonight is not only a celebration of culture, but also of the bonds that unite us all. Though our nations are divided by seas and borders, we share the same hopes — for peace, prosperity, and dignity for all,” he said.
Malaysia is hosting the 39th Meeting of the Senior Officials Committee for the Asean Socio-Cultural Community (Soca) and the 34th ASCC Meeting at the Sunway Convention Centre beginning yesterday.
Held biannually at the ministerial level and supported by SOCA, the ASCC Meeting serves as a platform for Asean member states to discuss key socio-cultural issues and strengthen the people-centred regional agenda through cultural initiatives and international cooperation.
