Kuala lumpur: Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Southeast Asia is viewed globally as the ‘most peaceful’ region with significant economic potential. He made this statement during a news conference in Kuala Lumpur, following the conclusion of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders’ summit.

According to Anadolu Agency, Anwar, who served as the chair of ASEAN, handed over leadership to the Philippines’ President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, who will assume the role in 2026. The summit, which spanned three days, included participation from leaders of 11 member nations, as well as US President Donald Trump and his counterparts from South Africa, Brazil, South Korea, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the EU, and India.

Timor-Leste was welcomed as the 11th member of ASEAN on the first day of the summit. In his address, Anwar discussed ongoing conflicts in Myanmar and Gaza, trade issues, and regional relations. He emphasized the bloc’s efforts to facilitate change in Myanmar and stressed the necessity for a fair US peace plan concerning the Gaza conflict.

Anwar highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to its responsibilities as ASEAN chair, emphasizing unity, patience, and steadfast leadership. He noted that the success of ASEAN is not solely determined by document signings but also by the discipline to act patiently and calmly amid uncertainties.

He expressed satisfaction with the ongoing discussions among partners and external powers, stating that ASEAN has revitalized dialogue and built new bridges. On the first day of the summit, Anwar and Trump witnessed a peace accord signing between Cambodia and Thailand, following border clashes earlier this year.

Over the past year, under the theme of Inclusivity and Sustainability, Malaysia organized over 300 meetings as part of its ASEAN chairmanship. Many more meetings are planned before the term concludes on December 31. Anwar also mentioned that discussions on the South China Sea Code of Conduct with China are set to accelerate, following an agreement with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

The ASEAN leaders concurred that the region should not become a battleground for superpowers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and stability.