KUALA LUMPUR: The Asean Summit 2025 concluded with several key outcomes, including the adoption of the KL Peace Accord, the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Inclusive Green Growth, acceptance of Timor-Leste as a member state, a joint commitment to enhance regional housing resilience and smart city connectivity and renewed pledges to accelerate the Asean Circular Economy Framework.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the summit marked major and historic milestones for both Malaysia and the regional bloc, underscoring the nation’s rising profile on the global stage.
“Among the highlights was the attendance of several world leaders, including the President of the United States, the President of China, the UN Secretary-General and heads of BRICS (Brazil), G20 (South Africa), the European Union and the United Nations, reflecting Malaysia’s growing importance as a key global player and strategic partner,” he said in a Facebook post on Tuesday (Oct 28).
He said that for the first time in 26 years, Asean announced an expansion of its membership, a move seen as strengthening the region’s collective voice and international partnerships.
He said another key outcome was the signing of the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, a landmark agreement reaffirming Asean’s central role in promoting peace and resolving regional conflicts, addressing long-standing criticisms of the bloc’s inaction in times of crisis.
“In the area of trade, Malaysia achieved a breakthrough by signing a Reciprocal Trade Agreement with the United States (ART), becoming the first Asean nation and among the few globally to formalise such a pact.
“The deal is expected to set a new benchmark for trade stability and future economic cooperation, with Bursa Malaysia and the ringgit showing immediate positive movements following the announcement,” he said.
Nga said the summit served as a platform to promote Malaysia globally, showcasing the country’s hospitality and cultural appeal.
He said a lighter moment that drew international attention was a viral video of US President Donald Trump dancing, which garnered over 1.1 million views on his official Instagram account, further amplifying Malaysia’s global visibility.
Adding to the list of firsts, Asean leaders also announced the launch of the Fifa Asean Cup, an initiative aimed at boosting the region’s sports diplomacy, unity and tourism potential.
In the Facebook post Nga bid farewell to Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Laos Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone following the successful conclusion of the Asean Summit 2025.
The official send-off ceremony took place at the Bunga Raya Complex, KL International Airport (KLIA), where Nga, who served as the minister-in-attendance to both leaders throughout the summit, conveyed Malaysia’s appreciation for their participation and contributions.
During the farewell, Nga extended his regards to both leaders and their spouses, Loo Tze Lui and Vandala Siphandone, wishing them safe travels and reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Singapore and Laos.
“The past few days have marked a historic moment for the entire Asean region. The summit has reaffirmed our region’s unity and resilience in navigating global challenges together. Malaysia remains steadfast in advancing shared prosperity and regional sustainability through closer cooperation among Asean members and the dialogue partners,” Nga said.
Nga, who is the national deputy chairman of Democratic Action Party (DAP), expressed hope that the achievement would inspire Malaysians, especially DAP members, to continue serving the nation with dedication and foresight.
“As our Secretary-General reminded us during the last National Convention, we must transition from being mere politicians to nation-building statesmen.
“This is the kind of leadership Malaysia needs for the future,” he added.
