Malaysia takes over ASEAN Chairmanship from Laos

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar bin Ibrahim on October 11 received the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel from the Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone at the closing ceremony of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits in Vientiane.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar bin Ibrahim (right) on October 11 receives the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel from the Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone

The symbolic handover marks the assumption of Malaysia as the Chair of ASEAN next year, which will officially commence January 1, 2025.

At the event, PM Anwar also unveiled the official logo and theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability” for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship.

He shared Malaysia’s vision for its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, centred on the chosen theme, pledging to ensure that no one is left behind. He emphasised his country's aim to enhance regional cooperation through dialogue and collaboration. He stressed that Malaysia will work closely with all ASEAN member states and external partners to champion an open, inclusive and rules-based regional architecture.

PM Anwar congratulated Laos on its successful ASEAN Chairmanship in 2024, and looked forward to receiving support from the ASEAN Secretary-General and Secretariat.

He stressed that 2025 will be of great significance and prospect as ASEAN will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its Community, a milestone in the bloc’s common journey, along with a new milestone – the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which outlines the roadmap for ASEAN’s shared future in the next two decades./.

VNA