ASEAN solidarity is one of the main factors that contribute to regional peace, stability and prosperity, and Malaysia will not enjoy progress if the region itself is embroiled in conflicts, said Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak in his message in conjunction with the 47th ASEAN founding anniversary.

"As one of the founding members of ASEAN, Malaysia should be proud of the efforts and role played by the country to ensure the success of the bloc,” he said, adding that ASEAN solidarity has succeeded in the bloc gaining the trust of the world community.

Najib said ASEAN has the objective of creating a forward-looking community, playing a major role in the development of regional issues, contributing to a community that is responsible and free from conflicts and economically vibrant.

"All these will make ASEAN closer to the people and subsequently turn it into an organisation of caring and responsible society.”

Referring to the appointment of Malaysia as the ASEAN Chair in 2015, the Prime Minister said it is the responsibility of Kuala Lumpur to lead and guide efforts to strengthen the bloc in the post-2015 period, and it has chosen “People-Centered ASEAN” as the main theme.

About the slogan 'Moving Forward in Unity to a Peaceful and Prosperous Community' chosen by Myanmar as the ASEAN Chair this year, Nazib lauded it as the most appropriate.-VNA