Multilateralism in a Complex World: Malaysia’s Proactive Engagement
In a world where global challenges require collective action, multilateralism is no longer a choice, but a clear imperative. This is the view of former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan, who emphasized that "co-operation is no longer a choice but a clear imperative." Indeed, this is especially true today, as some scholars and world leaders describe the world as increasingly challenging and divisive.
Malaysia’s Commitment to Multilateralism
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently demonstrated his commitment to multilateralism during an 11-day international tour. His participation in pivotal global forums – the Arab and Islamic Summit in Riyadh, the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in Lima, and the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro – underscored Malaysia’s proactive engagement in shaping global and regional discourse.
Navigating a Complex Geopolitical Environment
Dr. Alan Chong, Senior Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore, noted that the prime minister’s international tour could not have come at a better time to navigate Malaysia and ASEAN through a very complex geopolitical environment. "When I say complex, it basically refers to Sino-US competition, with these two superpowers forcing everyone, in a way, to pick sides," he said.
Strengthening Partnerships and Cushioning Impact
Chong emphasized that with the impending Trump 2.0 administration, which might disrupt things through the potential tariffs on imported products, smaller countries are currently seeking protections or insurance against the unknown. "So, in this context, I think Anwar going to APEC and talking to like-minded states is a plus for Malaysia, a plus for the entire ASEAN region, and the entire Asia-Pacific because it is one way of saying that we’ve got big existing friendships; let’s not allow Trump 2.0 sour all of them," he said.
Driving ASEAN Cooperation in 2025
On Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, Chong noted that he expects Anwar to drive the grouping towards closer economic cooperation and a more integrated market. He is hopeful that all ASEAN governments will fulfill the ASEAN Framework Agreement on the Facilitation of Goods in Transit (AFAFGIT). "There’s no enforcement mechanism in ASEAN, so we can only persuade. Hopefully, Anwar will be sufficiently charismatic, with the help of like-minded states and neighbours such as Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, to persuade the rest," he said.
Conclusion
In a rapidly changing world, multilateralism is key to navigating complex global challenges. Malaysia’s proactive engagement in international forums, led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, is a crucial step towards strengthening partnerships and driving cooperation in the region. As the world grapples with the uncertainties of the global geopolitical landscape, Malaysia’s commitment to multilateralism is a beacon of hope for a more peaceful and prosperous future.
FAQs
Q: What is multilateralism?
A: Multilateralism is the idea that international relations should be conducted through cooperation among multiple countries, rather than just between two countries.
Q: Why is multilateralism important in today’s global landscape?
A: Multilateralism is important because it allows countries to work together to address global challenges, such as climate change, economic inequality, and social injustice.
Q: What is Malaysia’s role in promoting multilateralism?
A: Malaysia has been actively promoting multilateralism through its engagement in international forums and agreements, such as the ASEAN Framework Agreement on the Facilitation of Goods in Transit (AFAFGIT).