By: Mike Paul
JAKARTA, April 22 – Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi met with ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn in Jakarta to discuss Malaysia’s upcoming chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025. The meeting focused on Malaysia’s commitment to the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability” and outlined three main priorities for the year:
- Strengthening regional peace and stability by enhancing strategic trust through ongoing dialogue and cooperation with ASEAN countries and foreign partners.
- Strengthening intra-ASEAN trade and investment with a focus on regional growth, inclusivity, and sustainability, as well as promoting green finance and digital investments.
- Ensuring inclusivity and sustainability are key focuses in efforts to build the ASEAN Community, by closing the development gap and addressing the impact of climate change.
Zahid acknowledged the continuous support of the ASEAN Secretariat in ensuring the success of Malaysia’s leadership in ASEAN 2025. Also present at the meeting was PYT Datin Sarah Nava Rani Al Bakri Devadason, Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to ASEAN in Jakarta, who plays an important role in coordinating various aspects of regional cooperation.
The discussion also covered the situation in Myanmar, where ASEAN has expressed solidarity and commitment in providing humanitarian assistance following the earthquake that struck the country in March 2025. ASEAN remains committed to ensuring aid reaches those in need.
Zahid expressed confidence that close cooperation between ASEAN and Malaysia will continue to bring significant benefits to the people, foster regional prosperity, and ensure mutual well-being.
- TNS News