ASEAN Urged to Strengthen Unity Amidst Global Pressures

ASEAN Unity Amidst Global Pressures: Malaysian Foreign Minister's Call for Stronger Regionalism Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – May 25, 2025 witnessed a significant call for unity within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan addressed the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting. The meeting, held in Kuala Lumpur, focused on navigating the complex geopolitical landscape and economic challenges posed by major world powers. Minister Hasan's address underscored the need for ASEAN to bolster its regional unity and centrality. He stressed that "ASEAN must remain the driver of regional architecture," emphasizing the importance of a unified Southeast Asian voice in international affairs. The minister highlighted the increasing complexity of the strategic competition in the region, urging ASEAN to prioritize dialogue and multilateral cooperation. Footage from the meeting showed ministers from various ASEAN nations engaging in discussions, illustrating the collaborative efforts underway to address the shared challenges. The gravity of the situation was palpable, underscoring the importance of ASEAN's collective response to external pressures. The meeting served as a crucial platform for ASEAN member states to reaffirm their commitment to regional stability and cooperation in the face of global uncertainties. The call for strengthened unity reflects the shared understanding of the need for a cohesive approach to address the complex challenges facing the region.