ASEAN and APEC Strengthen Cooperation for Sustainable Development
ASEAN and APEC’s Strong Cooperation
Strong cooperation between ASEAN and APEC remains a key agenda to ensure sustainable development and stronger economic integration in the region, said Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz. As Malaysia’s representative, he is confident that this commitment will continue to strengthen the country’s position in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and competitive Asia-Pacific economic future.
Malaysia’s Vision for Sustainable Growth
During a dialogue session with the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) and APEC economic leaders, he emphasized Malaysia’s vision to drive sustainable growth and regional economic transformation. “As Malaysia prepares to lead ASEAN in 2025, we are committed to strengthening the green economy, accelerating digital transformation, and ensuring economic inclusivity, with strong support from our regional partners under the ASEAN-APEC framework,” he said.
Malaysia’s Success in Attracting Foreign Direct Investment
Tengku Zafrul also shared Malaysia’s success in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), particularly in the data and semiconductor sectors. These two sectors are now critical pillars in strengthening the country’s economic resilience, he added.
Malaysia also believes that close cooperation between the public and private sectors plays an essential role in achieving mutual benefits for all member countries. Through such cooperation, Tengku Zafrul said it would ensure sustainable economic development and a more robust regional integration.
APEC Member Economies
Tengku Zafrul is currently in Lima, along with the Malaysian delegation led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is on an official visit to the capital, attending the 31st APEC Economic Leaders’ Week. APEC member economies represent approximately three billion people or nearly 30 per cent of the global population. These countries also account for nearly 60 per cent of the global gross domestic product and facilitate almost 50 per cent of global trade.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the strong cooperation between ASEAN and APEC is crucial in driving sustainable development and stronger economic integration in the region. Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening the green economy, accelerating digital transformation, and ensuring economic inclusivity is expected to play a key role in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and competitive Asia-Pacific economic future.
FAQs
Q: What is ASEAN’s role in strengthening the green economy?
A: ASEAN is committed to strengthening the green economy through initiatives such as sustainable energy development, green infrastructure development, and sustainable water management.
Q: How does Malaysia plan to drive digital transformation?
A: Malaysia plans to drive digital transformation through initiatives such as the development of a high-speed internet network, digital payment systems, and digital literacy programs.
Q: What is the significance of ASEAN-APEC cooperation?
A: ASEAN-APEC cooperation is crucial in promoting economic integration, increasing trade and investment, and promoting sustainable development in the region.