ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly: Malaysia and Cambodia Foster Deeper Engagement
PHNOM PENH, Jan 16 (Bernama) — Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul arrived in the capital today to foster deeper engagement with Cambodia ahead of the 46th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) to be held in Malaysia.
ASEAN’s Stability and Prosperity
Johari emphasized that the world is currently facing numerous challenges, with conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, and issues in Europe and America. However, ASEAN remains a region of stability. "We are committed to preserving this stability and ensuring that ASEAN continues to thrive as one of the most dynamic and prosperous regions in the world," he said in his opening remarks after a grand welcoming ceremony for the Malaysian delegation at the National Assembly this afternoon.
ASEAN’s Potential and Malaysia’s Chairmanship
Describing ASEAN as a dynamic region with vast potentials, Johari urged Cambodia to work along with Malaysia, which has taken over the ASEAN chairmanship this year. Malaysia will host the ASEAN Summit and the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat will kick off in Langkawi this Saturday.
AIPA’s Role in ASEAN
AIPA, a regional parliamentary organisation established in September 1977, is pivotal in engaging Southeast Asian lawmakers. They set policy directions for the development of AIPA’s objectives and as a forum to exchange ideas among its members. "AIPA is all about sharing knowledge and sharing experiences to make things happen. All economic factors show that this century is ASEAN’s century, and we shall make it happen," said Johari.
Cambodia’s Support
Addressing the visiting delegates, National Assembly President Khuon Sudary assured Cambodia’s steadfast support to Malaysia as chairman of ASEAN to bring more peace and stability to the region. "Cambodia congratulates and supports Malaysia as the host of the ASEAN Summit and relevant meetings, and the 46th AIPA meeting. Cambodia is ready to participate in this (endeavour). I believe with a strong leadership we can achieve great success, ASEAN centrality, peace, inclusivity and sustainability," she said.
ASEAN Tour
Johari, who is AIPA’s 46th president for 2025, is on an ASEAN tour to rally support to bolster AIPA by engaging ASEAN member states ahead of the assembly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the visit by Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul to Cambodia marks an important step in fostering deeper engagement between the two countries ahead of the 46th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly. The assembly aims to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, and Malaysia’s chairmanship this year provides a unique opportunity for ASEAN member states to work together towards a common goal.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of Johari’s visit to Cambodia?
A: Johari’s visit aims to foster deeper engagement between Malaysia and Cambodia ahead of the 46th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly.
Q: What is AIPA’s role in ASEAN?
A: AIPA is a regional parliamentary organisation that sets policy directions for the development of AIPA’s objectives and as a forum to exchange ideas among its members.
Q: What is Malaysia’s role in ASEAN this year?
A: Malaysia has taken over the ASEAN chairmanship this year and will host the ASEAN Summit and the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat in Langkawi this Saturday.