The ASEAN Chairmanship is a good opportunity for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s government to raise its national perspective and focus to the regional level. (Source: Bernama)
According to the author, more directly, the ASEAN Chairman should at least focus on the following issues:
The first, deepening Free Trade Agreements (FTA). Malaysia should actively support comprehensive and inclusive FTAs within ASEAN, and with external partners. These agreements should seek to reduce trade barriers, facilitate trade and investment flows, and promote transparency in trade regulations.
Monday, promoting regional economic integration: The ASEAN Economic Community Master Plan and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) need to be further promoted. By strengthening economic ties and harmonizing trade and investment regulations within ASEAN, Malaysia can help promote resilient and interconnected regional economies that can withstand disruptions. external disruption and trade tensions.
Tuesday, enhance digital trade and e-commerce: Malaysia should support digital trade and e-commerce within ASEAN. Promoting cross-border digital trade, standardizing e-commerce regulations and enhancing digital connectivity will provide SMEs in all member states with access to markets bigger.
Wednesday, Improve supply chain resilience: Strengthening trade facilitation measures, simplifying customs procedures and improving supply chain resilience in ASEAN are all essential tasks , along with investments in infrastructure, improved connectivity and the use of digital trade facilitation tools. These will minimize the risk of disruption due to trade conflicts.
The ASEAN Chairmanship is a good opportunity for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s government to raise its national perspective and focus to the regional level. Mr. Anwar is well suited to play an international role as a peacemaker and moderator of geopolitical tensions.
More importantly, recognizing the importance of trade in promoting economic development and promoting peace, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim should support reducing, or even eliminating, trade barriers and supporting trade. Support trade connectivity and promote inclusive policies.
The Malaysian head of government needs to promote multilateralism, with the understanding that multilateral institutions are essential tools to address global challenges. In fact, during his time in power and not only as Chairman of ASEAN, Mr. Anwar Ibrahim should also support reform of the largest organizations such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Health Organization world (WHO) and even the United Nations.
Other areas where Mr Anwar can make a difference and strengthen Malaysia’s commitment to fair and peaceful globalization are diplomatic mediation, humanitarian assistance and environmental sustainability. By promoting ASEAN regionalism, he can help overcome political divisions in the country.
Former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad once supported initiatives at the global level. Gaining competence, experience and reputation as a statesman is easier than focusing solely on domestic issues. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has the ability to promote international achievements to a domestic audience, and that will be best done by focusing on the economic and reputational benefits for the country.
Engaging in international diplomacy also allowed Mr. Anwar to build alliances and partnerships with other countries and international organizations. These can be leveraged to advance Malaysia’s interests and advance domestic priorities such as economic development and security cooperation.
Overall, by leveraging a strategy of participating in international initiatives, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim can enhance his domestic political power, strengthen his leadership credibility, and attract support for his initiatives. government reforms.
(according to VNA)