ASEAN Charts New Course with KL 2045 Declaration

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – May 26, 2025 – The 46th ASEAN Summit concluded today with the signing of the Kuala Lumpur 2045 Declaration, charting a new course for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Dr. Roy Anthony Rogers, Head of the Department of International and Strategic Studies at the University of Malaya, offered insights into the declaration's significance. "This declaration marks a crucial turning point for Malaysia and ASEAN," Dr. Rogers stated, emphasizing the document's focus on inclusivity and sustainability. The discussion also highlighted the impact of recent global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the increasing use of artificial intelligence, on ASEAN's future direction. The 500 concrete steps outlined in the declaration aim to create a more people-centered ASEAN community over the next two decades. The summit's focus on inclusivity and sustainability signals a commitment to addressing the diverse challenges and opportunities facing the region.