Malaysia urges ASEAN to take stronger action for Myanmar peace

Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on ASEAN member states to solidify their collective commitment to resolving the ongoing crisis in Myanmar.

Speaking at the 38th Asia-Pacific Roundtable (APR) in Kuala Lumpur on June 19, he described the situation in Myanmar as one of Southeast Asia’s most pressing and unresolved challenges.

He affirmed the determination of Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair for 2025, to utilise all viable regional mechanisms of the bloc and work with partners to de-escalate violence and restore a peace process led by Myanmar.

The Malaysian leader underscored ASEAN’s role in laying a solid foundation to help the region address disputes and crises—ranging from territorial disputes and pandemics to climate disasters. He highlighted the bloc’s achievements in promoting economic integration through initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the forthcoming Digital Economy Framework Agreement.

The three-day APR meeting, held from June 17 to 19, attracted around 400 delegates and 50 experts from 25 countries and territories.

The APR is a signature activity of the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia. It is a Southeast Asian conference that discusses key issues affecting the Asia Pacific region./.