Mohamad Hasan: ‘Asean Way’ keeps region resilient and united in turbulent times

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 25 — Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan today said Asean’s growing recognition on the global stage shows that the region is stronger when its members stand and move together as one.

Speaking before the Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting here, Mohamad said the bloc’s unity and commitment to dialogue and trust have kept it resilient through decades of political and economic change.

“In the eyes of the international community, Asean has stood as a beacon of neutrality and a safe harbour amid geopolitical turbulence.

“Regardless of the uncertainties and the great power rivalries that have cast long shadows across global trade, this region has remained steadfast and productive,” he said.

He stressed that upholding the “Asean Way” is crucial as the region faces challenges including the Myanmar crisis, the South China Sea disputes, and recent border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.

“As Chair, Malaysia is humbled by the trust placed in us to facilitate these de-escalation efforts, and we remain fully committed to supporting both countries,” he said, referring to Asean’s mediation that helped ease the border conflict.

On Myanmar, Mohamad said the crisis must be addressed with determination and active engagement.

“If the crisis is left unresolved, numerous internal issues will spill across borders in the form of transnational crime, refugee flows, and wider socioeconomic instability,” he said.

Turning to the South China Sea, Mohamad reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment as Asean’s country coordinator for China, to advancing negotiations on the Code of Conduct. 

He said open but firm engagement was key to preserving regional stability and ensuring Asean’s collective interests are protected.

He also reiterated Asean’s support for efforts to end the conflict in Gaza, describing the humanitarian situation there as “unspeakable suffering,” and welcomed global initiatives towards a cessation of violence and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

“Asean welcomes efforts to establish a cessation of violence in Gaza, in the first phase of President Trump’s ‘Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict’.

“This development marks an important step forward. And we hope that it will ultimately lead to the realisation of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, and the establishment of a sovereign and independent State of Palestine,” he said.

Mohamad said Asean carries a heavy responsibility as the bloc represents a dynamic global outlook.

“The hopes of nearly 700 million people for a safe and sustainable future, and a form of inclusive multilateralism that has so much to offer the world at large,” he added.

He ended his speech by reminding his Asean counterparts: “Whatever uncertainties lie ahead, we will face them the ‘Asean Way’.

“Our diversity will continue to be our greatest source of strength,” he added.

[Source: Malay Mail]