KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is ready to assume the 2025 Asean chairmanship with a vision of unity, inclusivity and collaboration, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said recent geopolitical divisions threatened regional stability, but Asean could overcome these challenges through shared leadership and a policy of strong neutrality.

"As we approach our Asean chairmanship in 2025, in fact technically next week itself, Malaysia is prepared to lead with a vision of unity, inclusivity and collaboration.

"And we may go beyond Asean, as we explore partnership with BRICS, which will deepen Global South-South relationships.

"We reiterate the paramount importance of adhering to a rules-based order, regionally and internationally, but we reject the hypocrisy and double standards observed by those when it suits them," he said in his speech at the Khazanah Megatrends Forum 2024 here today (Oct 7).

On Oct 11, Laos will officially hand over the Asean chairmanship to Malaysia. Anwar is expected to deliver Malaysia's statement during the 44th and 45th Asean Summits and Related Summits on Wednesday.

He will also attend the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, from Oct 22 to 24, at the personal invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/10/1116067/pm-malaysia-ready-lead-asean-unity-inclusivity