Mohamad calls for a Gaza ceasefire, stronger energy security and an end to unilateral trade measures as ASEAN and Europe navigate a fractured world.
By TENGKU NOOR SHAMSIAH TENGKU ABDULLAH
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan delivered a pointed address at the 25th ASEAN–European Union Ministerial Meeting (AEMM), calling for the consistent and principled application of international law, an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and coordinated efforts to prevent geo-economic fragmentation from undermining the global trading system.
Mohamad led Malaysia’s delegation to the biennial gathering held in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, from April 27 to 28. The meeting brought together foreign ministers from ASEAN member states and the European Union, co-chaired by Brunei’s Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd. Yusof and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas.
The platform enabled both sides to review progress in their strategic partnership, exchange views on regional and global issues, and advance preparations for the 50th anniversary of ASEAN–EU relations in 2027.
A Joint Ministerial Statement was adopted, reaffirming ASEAN Centrality and committing to deeper cooperation under the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
Geo-economic Fragmentation a Growing Threat
In his address, Mohamad warned of rising risks from geo-economic fragmentation and unilateral economic measures disrupting global trade flows.
“Malaysia notes with concern the increasing hazards posed by geo-economic fragmentation and unilateral measures that affect global trade flows,” he said, stressing that global economic engagement must remain “transparent, non-discriminatory, and supportive of an open and rules-based trading system.”
He added that ongoing conflicts are generating significant economic fallout including supply chain disruptions, energy insecurity, and mounting cost-of-living pressures with effects extending far beyond immediate conflict zones.
Energy Security and Regional Conflict Risks
Mohamad specifically cited the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran as a destabilising force for global energy security. Disruptions around key maritime chokepoints, he noted, have contributed to volatility in oil supply and prices, with cascading effects on inflation and economic stability worldwide.
Malaysia, he said, emphasises the importance of maintaining maritime security and ensuring the safe and unimpeded flow of energy supplies, while calling for de-escalation, diplomatic engagement and the full and effective implementation of any ceasefire agreement.
Gaza: A Crisis the World Cannot Ignore
Malaysia used the platform to reaffirm its longstanding position on Palestine.
“Amid these latest developments, the world must not forget the humanitarian catastrophe and immense suffering of civilians in Gaza,” Mohamad said, reiterating Kuala Lumpur’s call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire and the resumption of unimpeded humanitarian aid delivery.
He also condemned violations of Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and expressed condolences over the loss of UN peacekeepers serving under UNIFIL.
On the Russia–Ukraine conflict, he underscored the need for sustained dialogue and diplomacy to achieve a just and lasting peace.
No Double Standards in International Law
In remarks that underscored Malaysia’s positioning as a principled voice in multilateral diplomacy, Mohamad called on ASEAN and the EU to jointly uphold the multilateral systems underpinning global peace, security and economic stability.
“Malaysia believes the credibility of the rules-based international order depends on the consistent application of international law without double standards and without impunity,” he said.
The minister’s remarks align with the broader consensus reached at the meeting. The 25th AEMM Joint Statement unanimously called on all parties to return to the negotiating table so that ongoing wars can be brought to an end and free trade routes and supply chains can function again a position Mohamad confirmed reflected discussions dominated by the direct economic and geopolitical toll of current global conflicts on both regions
Meeting Context
The 25th AEMM, hosted by Brunei Darussalam as ASEAN-EU Country Coordinator, was aimed at advancing the Strategic Partnership and charting its future direction.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Mohamad held bilateral meetings with counterparts from ASEAN and EU member states to discuss issues of mutual interest. He was accompanied by senior officials from Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
With 2027 marking a half-century of ASEAN-EU relations, the Brunei gathering carries added significance.
Both sides have signalled ambitions to elevate the relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a fitting milestone for two regions increasingly aligned in their commitment to multilateralism, open trade, and a rules-based international order, even as the global geopolitical landscape grows more fractured by the day.
- TNS NEWS