Post by : Raman

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Asean to earn, re-earn, and fortify its unity, cohesion, and central role as the region faces increasing geopolitical rivalry and complex modern challenges.

The Malaysian leader delivered his remarks during his Presidential Lecture and Acceptance of the Grand Collar of the Order of Timor-Leste in Dili on Tuesday. He reminded the audience that Asean’s centrality and unity should never be taken for granted.

Asean’s Unity Is Not Permanent

Anwar highlighted that Asean has made great progress since its founding, but its unity has not always been consistent.

“Asean has gone through thick and thin, persevered and grown. Yet the lessons of the past few years reinforce what our founding fathers knew back then – our unity, cohesion and centrality are not a given. They have waxed and waned through our nearly six decades of existence,” he said.

The prime minister added that beyond political statements, Asean must continuously strengthen its cooperation.

“Rhetoric aside, Asean’s cohesion and centrality must be earned and re-earned and fortified. A divided Asean will only hamper the collective vision for a peaceful and prosperous region. Therefore, efforts toward Asean unity must continue, especially when the region is facing myriad challenges,” Anwar stressed.

Historic Visit to Timor-Leste

Anwar is on a two-day historic official visit to Timor-Leste, which began on Monday. The visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and showing Malaysia’s support for Timor-Leste’s upcoming entry into Asean.

Timor-Leste is expected to become the 11th member of Asean, a move that Anwar said will enhance the organisation’s relevance and inclusiveness. Malaysia has pledged its full support for Timor-Leste’s integration into the bloc.

Facing Regional Challenges Together

The prime minister’s speech comes at a time when Asean nations are navigating rising tensions in the South China Sea, competition between major powers, and the need for greater economic resilience.

Anwar emphasised that unity will allow Asean to better manage these pressures while continuing to push for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region.

“A divided Asean will only weaken our shared goals, but a united Asean will be a force that ensures peace, prosperity, and cooperation in Southeast Asia and beyond,” he concluded.

Anwar Ibrahim, Asean unity, Asean cohesion, Asean centrality, Timor-Leste Asean membership, Malaysia Timor-Leste relations