Malaysia to prioritise Asean connectivity and inclusivity under Aipa presidency, says Johari

VIENTIANE: Malaysia’s presidency of Aipa next year would prioritise enhancing Asean connectivity by expanding both physical and digital infrastructure to boost trade, investment and people movement, said Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul.

Johari, in his acceptance speech as the 46th Asean Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (Aipa) president, reaffirmed Malaysia’s dedication to regional unity and parliamentary diplomacy.

“We aim to continue our predecessors’ work, drive progress and address Asean’s challenges. This will foster economic growth and cultural exchange within Asean,” he said at the closing ceremony of the 45th Aipa General Assembly on Monday (Oct 21)

The four-day meeting, themed ‘The Role of Parliaments in Enhancing Connectivity and Inclusive Growth of Asean’, started on Friday (Oct 18) at the National Convention Centre (NCC) here, gathering delegations from Asean member parliaments, observers and development partners of Aipa.

According to Johari, Malaysia will champion inclusivity during its presidency and through working together, he believes Asean member countries can achieve their shared vision of a united and prosperous region, as well as turn Asean into a global leader on various global issues.

Johari said Aipa serves as a vital platform for dialogue, cooperation and mutual understanding across Southeast Asia that defines the nations’ shared future.

He stressed the need for inclusive growth to ensure that all Asean citizens benefit from regional integration, which requires investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure, as well as harmonising policies and reducing trade barriers to accelerate Asean’s integration.

He also highlighted food security as a crucial issue that demands regional collaboration and called for urgent action in accelerating the transition to renewable energy as it would be the key factor to achieving a sustainable future.

Johari also urged Asean to harness innovation to boost growth and bridge digital access in today’s digital era.

“By investing in digital infrastructure and empowering our youth and SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises), we can harness the potential of the digital economy,” he added.

However, he said this progress must be underpinned by robust cybersecurity measures and governance frameworks to ensure digital spaces are secure and accessible to all.

On parliamentary diplomacy and Asean’s Centrality matters, Johari stressed the importance of reaffirming Asean’s centrality and unity in addressing the complex challenges facing the region.

“Open dialogue among Aipa Member Parliaments is crucial for safeguarding peace, stability and prosperity,” he said.

He also underlined the role of parliamentary diplomacy in complementing governmental efforts, calling on parliamentarians to work closely with Asean bodies, civil society and the private sector to build a more prosperous and secure Asean.

During the closing ceremony, Laos National Assembly president and 45th Aipa president Xaysomphone Phomvihane symbolically handed over the 46th Aipa presidency to Johari.- Bernama