NewsJanuary 15, 2025

Exploring Malaysia's Role as ASEAN Chair in 2025

Discover the challenges and opportunities Malaysia faces as it prepares to chair ASEAN in 2025.

Malaysia's Upcoming Chairmanship of ASEAN: Challenges and Opportunities

As Malaysia prepares to assume the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in January 2025, it faces a complex landscape of challenges and opportunities. The upcoming leadership role comes at a critical juncture for the region, marked by geopolitical tensions, internal conflicts, and a pressing need for sustainable development. This article delves into the key issues Malaysia will need to navigate and the potential pathways for enhancing ASEAN's influence on the global stage.

Key Challenges Ahead

Myanmar's Civil War

One of the most pressing challenges for Malaysia's chairmanship will be addressing the ongoing civil war in Myanmar. The conflict has not only led to a humanitarian crisis but has also strained relations among ASEAN member states. As noted by Joanne Lin, Senior Fellow at the ISEAS–Yusof Ishak Institute, "The South China Sea dilemma is a significant challenge for Malaysia's chairmanship. Tensions are rising between several Southeast Asian states and Beijing over disputed territory, even as Myanmar remains engulfed in a civil war" [1]. Malaysia will need to foster dialogue and consensus among member states to address this multifaceted issue.

South China Sea Tensions

The South China Sea remains a contentious area, with several ASEAN nations embroiled in disputes with China over territorial claims. Malaysia's ability to mediate these tensions will be crucial, as the region's stability is at stake. The chairmanship will require a delicate balance between asserting ASEAN's collective interests and managing relations with China, a key player in the region.

Opportunities for Growth

Strengthening ASEAN-U.S. Relations

The relationship between ASEAN and the United States has been on an upward trajectory, with the U.S. recently upgrading its ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This development presents an opportunity for Malaysia to leverage U.S. support in addressing regional challenges. The U.S. has fulfilled 98.37% of its commitments under the ASEAN-U.S. Plan of Action (2022-2025) [5]. Malaysia can capitalize on this momentum to enhance economic cooperation and security partnerships within the region.

Environmental Rights Initiatives

Another significant opportunity lies in the development of the ASEAN Declaration on Environmental Rights. This initiative aims to create a policy framework that incorporates the perspectives of Indigenous Peoples and civil society [3]. By championing this declaration, Malaysia can position itself as a leader in environmental governance, aligning with global sustainability goals while addressing local concerns.

Economic Context

ASEAN's economic landscape is robust, with a purchasing power parity (PPP) gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $10.2 trillion in 2022, accounting for about 6.5% of global GDP [4]. The region's economic potential is further underscored by the estimated $500 billion in goods and services trade between the U.S. and ASEAN in 2023 [5]. Malaysia's chairmanship could focus on enhancing intra-ASEAN trade and investment, fostering economic resilience in the face of global uncertainties.

Diverse Stakeholder Perspectives

U.S. Commitment

The Biden-Harris Administration has emphasized the importance of ASEAN centrality in its foreign policy, viewing the region as a critical partner in addressing global challenges. The U.S. has provided over $14.7 billion in economic, health, and security assistance to Southeast Asian allies since 2002, demonstrating its commitment to the region [5]. Malaysia's leadership can further strengthen this partnership, ensuring that ASEAN remains a pivotal player in the Indo-Pacific.

Indigenous Peoples' Involvement

The development of the ASEAN Declaration on Environmental Rights highlights the importance of including diverse voices in decision-making processes. Engaging Indigenous Peoples and other marginalized groups will be essential for creating policies that are equitable and effective [3]. Malaysia's chairmanship can serve as a platform for amplifying these voices, fostering a more inclusive approach to regional governance.

Conclusion

As Malaysia gears up for its chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025, it stands at a crossroads of challenges and opportunities. By addressing critical issues such as the Myanmar civil war and South China Sea tensions, while also leveraging its position to strengthen ties with the U.S. and promote environmental rights, Malaysia can play a transformative role in shaping the future of ASEAN. The success of this leadership will depend on its ability to navigate complex regional dynamics and foster cooperation among member states.