At the ASEAN Future Forum 2025, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed his deep admiration for Vietnam’s economic growth and resilience, noting the country’s remarkable transition from hardship to industrialization and modernization.

He also voiced his desire to visit Dien Bien Phu, a site he regards as a symbol of Vietnam’s guerrilla warfare legacy and national pride.

Speaking at the high-level plenary session on February 26, Anwar Ibrahim recalled his early visits to Vietnam and his familiarity with President Ho Chi Minh’s revolutionary teachings.

He emphasized Malaysia’s long-standing support for Vietnam’s struggle for independence and economic development.

“I congratulate Vietnam on achieving 7% economic growth last year. Vietnam has proven its resilience by ensuring economic stability, advancing industrialization, and maintaining a distinct and strategic foreign policy. It is an admirable model of transformation,” said Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

The Malaysian leader warned of disruptions in global geopolitics, which could have serious implications for peace and prosperity in Southeast Asia. He urged ASEAN to strengthen regional unity, economic resilience, and diplomatic autonomy in the face of these challenges.

“ASEAN must shine as a beacon of hope in a world of uncertainties. We must work together to build a sustainable, harmonious, and economically dynamic region,” he stated.

Discussing ASEAN’s strategic position, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted Vietnam’s approach to balancing relations with the United States and China. He noted that ASEAN as a bloc must follow a similar path, maintaining independence and neutrality while fostering strong partnerships with global players.

He also proposed a future ASEAN-U.S. summit, reinforcing the importance of diplomatic engagement with major global powers.

New Zealand’s commitment to ASEAN’s future

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon also addressed the forum, underscoring ASEAN’s importance in the Indo-Pacific region.

He pointed out that the region is not only one of the fastest-growing economic hubs but also a geopolitical hotspot requiring careful diplomacy.

“ASEAN will be the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2040. Its growth and economic dynamism make it a crucial partner for New Zealand. Our commitment to deepening economic, trade, and security ties with ASEAN remains steadfast,” Luxon said.

He highlighted ASEAN’s evolving role and reaffirmed New Zealand’s dedication to expanding trade, people-to-people exchanges, and defense cooperation with the region.

As the ASEAN Future Forum continues to shape discussions on the region’s future, Vietnam’s economic rise, strategic diplomacy, and leadership in ASEAN remain key talking points.

The country’s resilience and adaptability serve as a model for ASEAN’s collective growth and stability in an increasingly complex global environment.

Tran Thuong