KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 – Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in his keynote address at the ASEAN Investment Conference 2025, underscored the need for ASEAN to remain resilient and united in the face of rising global protectionism. Citing recent sweeping tariffs by the United States, Anwar emphasized Malaysia’s strategy of quiet diplomacy, reaffirming the country’s commitment to safeguarding its economic interests while enhancing trade diversification across Asia, the EU, the Middle East, and Africa.
Highlighting Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, the Prime Minister outlined initiatives to boost regional integration, including the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone, ASEAN power grid development, and the expansion of cross-border digital payment connectivity. He also launched the ASEAN Simplified ESG Disclosure Guide for SMEs, aimed at helping small businesses navigate sustainability standards. Anwar concluded by urging ASEAN to stay open, pragmatic, and cohesive to thrive in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
