Malaysia’s Continued Regional Leadership
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is poised to carry forward the momentum gained from the 47th ASEAN Summit into the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting this week. This significant event will take place in Gyeongju, South Korea, starting from October 31 to November 1.
Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, Senior Press Secretary to the Prime Minister, highlighted that Anwar will be representing Malaysia at the APEC forum. His participation underscores Malaysia's ongoing commitment to regional leadership, following his successful chairmanship of the recent ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
During the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, Anwar will emphasize several key areas such as inclusiveness in strengthening supply chains, digital economy development, and sustainable development. He will also highlight Malaysia’s policy framework concerning digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI).
The visit offers Anwar an opportunity to engage with key industry players and discuss potential business and investment opportunities. Additionally, it aims to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Malaysia and the Republic of Korea.
Before departing for Gyeongju, Anwar is scheduled to attend the Prime Minister’s Question Time (PMQT) session in Parliament tomorrow morning. Following this, he will head to South Korea to participate in the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.
Tunku Nashrul expressed hope that the continued efforts at both the ASEAN and APEC levels will reinforce Malaysia’s position as a principled, progressive country committed to justice, prosperity, and regional peace.
Anwar, who recently hosted leaders from ASEAN member states and dialogue partners, including US President Donald Trump, is expected to meet them again in Gyeongju as APEC members.
APEC serves as a crucial platform for Malaysia to promote open markets and enhance regional supply chain resilience. Last year, APEC economies accounted for 78% of Malaysia’s total trade, valued at RM2.06 trillion.
The theme of APEC 2025 Korea is “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow.” The summit will focus on advancing regional trade, AI, and sustainability. Ministerial sessions will address health, the digital economy, and small and medium-sized enterprises.
Malaysia last hosted APEC in 2020 in the first-ever virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This upcoming meeting marks another significant step in Malaysia's engagement with the Asia-Pacific region.