Leading into the Future: Malaysia can look to green and resilient ASEAN 2100

October 14, 2024

BEIJING – As Malaysia prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, it faces a crucial opportunity to steer the region through transformative geopolitical and economic shifts while championing environmental sustainability. Southeast Asia’s growing strategic importance positions Malaysia to enhance ASEAN’s global influence. By leveraging its pragmatic diplomacy and Look East policy—emphasizing strategic partnerships with China and other East Asian nations—Malaysia can drive regional integration, foster economic growth, and ensure environmental stewardship. The task is not only to address current challenges but to lay the groundwork for a visionary ASEAN future extending to 2100, characterized by resilience, dynamism, and ecological sustainability.

First, on economic integration and green growth. A primary focus for Malaysia will be advancing economic integration within ASEAN while embedding sustainability into economic policies. As China remains the largest trading partner in the region, Malaysia can lead initiatives that streamline trade and investment flows with an emphasis on green practices. Utilizing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) as a framework, Malaysia can advocate for environmentally friendly trade policies and support green technologies.

In the context of the evolving global economic landscape, the rise of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) presents both opportunities and challenges. BRICS countries, with their significant economic clout and growing influence, offer potential avenues for expanding green trade and investment partnerships. Malaysia can leverage these relationships to foster collaboration on sustainable development initiatives and