Mohamad Hasan urges stronger Asean connectivity, eyes freer region with EU‑style movement

NEW YORK, Sept 28 — Asean Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan stressed the importance of further enhancing connectivity among the region's member states to foster a more open and integrated community. He expressed Malaysia's ambition to witness Asean evolve into a freer region over the next decade, including the possibility of free movement akin to the European Union.

Speaking at a session with the Malaysian diaspora, Mohamad acknowledged that such aspirations may not materialize immediately due to varying policies and laws across member states, but he emphasized that this should not deter progress. He highlighted that achieving this vision would require a prolonged process of preparation and gradual transformation.

Mohamad also underscored the need for Malaysia to equip its youth for heightened competition within a more interconnected Asean. He questioned whether the nation had adequately prepared its children to contend with peers from neighboring countries like Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, and others. Earlier, during a joint press conference with local media, he affirmed Asean's role as a middle power in navigating global geopolitical and economic uncertainties.

He pointed out that the international community is increasingly turning to Asean for its influential voice due to the bloc's robust position, capacity to present a unified stance on key global issues, and substantial economic potential.