1-3-2025 (KUALA LUMPUR) Despite mounting global economic pressures and geopolitical tensions, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) remains on track to achieve its projected growth targets, according to Malaysian Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

Speaking at Friday’s ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Retreat in Johor, the minister highlighted the remarkable economic fortitude demonstrated by the ten-nation bloc throughout its post-pandemic recovery journey.

“The spirit of ASEAN solidarity has been, and will continue to be, the foundation of our progress,” Zafrul emphasised, whilst urging fellow ministers to approach discussions with collaborative openness and dedication to shared objectives.

The Malaysian minister, representing the nation currently holding ASEAN’s 2025 rotating chairmanship, stressed the importance of the bloc’s collective response to evolving global circumstances. “It is prudent for ASEAN to assess the dynamics of these situations and possess the ability to understand the eventualities that may significantly impact our regional economic landscape,” he noted.

Zafrul called for strengthened internal cohesion amongst member states alongside diversification of the bloc’s external partnerships. He specifically pointed to accelerating frameworks such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) as potential buffers against adverse policy shifts from major economies worldwide.

The minister reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to its foundational values of peace, stability and mutual respect, describing these principles as essential to securing prosperity for all citizens across the Southeast Asian region.