Asean's voice took centre stage at a time world lost its balance

NEW YORK: Asean is being increasingly recognised as an important voice in addressing a wide range of global issues, with its position often awaited by the international community.

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the regional bloc has emerged as an influential middle power, driven by consensus among its member states in voicing issues related to peace, human rights and compliance with international law.

"Asean's voice is now awaited by many countries and the international community because we speak as a united bloc.

"The world today is facing geopolitical and economic uncertainties. In such circumstances, the views put forward by Asean are receiving increasing attention," he said.

Mohamad said this to reporters at the conclusion of his working visit in conjunction with the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) here.

He said Asean, with a population of nearly 700 million, was now one of the fastest-growing economic regions in the world.

"By 2030, Asean is expected to become the world's fourth-largest economic power. That is why the international community is always looking to Asean for its views and positions," he said.

Mohamad, however, said Asean must continue to navigate its role carefully to ensure that the bloc remains neutral and is not perceived as siding with any particular power.

"We need to navigate this carefully because we do not want Asean to be seen as having any particular interests.

"What we voice are universal issues such as violations of human rights and international law," he said.

Mohamad said, when Asean voices a position, it represents the collective voice of its 11 member states, giving it greater strength and influence than acting alone.

This approach enables the bloc to continue playing a role as a bridge for dialogue and a trusted voice in addressing increasingly complex global challenges.