Kuala Lumpur (VNA) - Former Malaysian Foreign Minister Syed Hamid Albar has underscored the importance of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in maintaining regional stability, describing it as a crucial platform for dialogue and cooperation among member states.
In an interview with Bernama TV’s ASEAN Malaysia 2025: Dari Kuala Lumpur Ke Dunia (From Kuala Lumpur to the World) on February 27, he highlighted ASEAN’s role as a mediator in diplomatic tensions, emphasising its non-alignment principle and consensus-based decision-making process. While acknowledging the organisation’s challenges, he reaffirmed that its framework provides a necessary mechanism for peace and stability in Southeast Asia.
The former minister said that ASEAN has always played a critical role in fostering regional security. Its strength lies in its ability to bring nations together despite their differences. While there are limitations, the ASEAN way of diplomacy remains a valuable tool in ensuring harmony in the region, he noted.
Syed Hamid also addressed concerns regarding the bloc’s response to geopolitical shifts, particularly about major powers such as the US and China, and their impact on Southeast Asia.
He stressed the importance of maintaining neutrality while advocating for policies that prioritise regional interests. ASEAN’s foreign policy should remain balanced, allowing engagement with both major powers without compromising the bloc’s unity and autonomy, he added.
He also highlighted economic cooperation within ASEAN to reduce reliance on external powers, highlighting diversification as key to mitigate risks associated with global power struggles.
The former minister also discussed Malaysia’s role within ASEAN, noting the country’s longstanding commitment to diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation. He noted Malaysia’s contributions to various ASEAN initiatives, including economic partnerships and security collaborations, and emphasised ASEAN’s need to adapt to shifting geopolitical realities, particularly in an era of economic uncertainty and strategic competition./.
