Malaysia set to lead ASEAN’s drive towards sustainable development

Malaysia is set to become the driving force in shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future for the region, delegates at the recent 46^th ASEAN Summit were told.

According to International Islamic University Malaysia lecturer Prof Dr Zainal Abidin Sanusi, Malaysia’s consistent commitment to green policies and renewable energy initiatives sets it apart as a natural leader for ASEAN’s next phase of development.

“As Chair this year, Malaysia can act as a catalyst for a sustainable development model that is not dependent on the unsustainable frameworks of developed nations,” Zainal Abidin said. “The climate crisis is already here which means ASEAN must act boldly and collectively.”

He also emphasised that ASEAN must move away from fossil fuel-based strategies and toward models that prioritise climate resilience, responsible resource management and social justice.

Under the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’, the ASEAN 2025 agenda called for long-term, people-centred development, but Zainal Abidin warned that this vision must be translated into tangible policies and actions.

“Without inclusivity, inequality will continue to widen. Without sustainability, progress will be short-lived. Malaysia’s leadership as ASEAN Chair in 2025 is critical to ensuring that today’s growth doesn’t become tomorrow’s burden,” he said.

He added that Malaysia’s domestic policies already reflect this forward-thinking approach. “Initiatives like the National Environmental Policy, Green Economy Framework, New Industrial Master Plan and a strong push for renewable energy underscore its commitment to climate action and environmental governance,” he said.

“With a moderate and balanced foreign policy, Malaysia is seen as a credible bridge between ASEAN and external partners such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and China,” he said.

Zainal Abidin further called on Malaysia to champion the environmental, social and governance principles, promote access to education and technology, and elevate the voices of women, youth and local communities in shaping ASEAN policies.

“Malaysia can lead by example in making development and sustainability complementary, not conflicting, strategies,” he said.

Addressing ASEAN 2025, Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Malaysia said the country remained steadfast in facing various global challenges and continues to play a role as the catalyst and leader of regional diplomacy.

He said that although the world is facing various challenges, including geopolitical tensions and trade tariffs, Malaysia remains firmly anchored.

“Malaysia is among the first countries to act in protecting the interests of industry and businesses and the welfare of the people.

“Comprehensive and inclusive strategic measures have been taken, with the involvement of various parties to ensure the country remains economically stable and competitive,” he said.

The Prime Minister also described this year’s ASEAN Summit as the best in the history of the organisation. “The Asean Summit… very much proved that the spirit of teamwork is the key to fulfilling the aspirations and ambitions of the country,” he said.

He also expressed confidence that the Visit Malaysia 2026 initiative will be a new catalyst for economic growth and the proliferation of employment opportunities.

The chair of ASEAN rotates annually based on the alphabetical order of the English names of member states, and in 2025 the role is being held by Malaysia.

Accountants ‘play critical role in sustainability’

Accountants are increasingly vital in embedding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into corporate decision-making and reporting, according to Malaysia’s Minister of Finance II, Amir Hamzah Azizan.

He said the accounting profession’s advocacy for sustainability aligns closely with national priorities, such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), which aim to accelerate green growth and industrial transformation.

“In executing these plans, we are counting on accountants to play a critical role in guiding companies to improve their sustainability practices, particularly in governance by ensuring high-quality, reliable disclosures are aligned with international standards. Such reliable and credible reporting is crucial for attracting low-carbon investments and enhancing the international competitiveness and green credentials of Malaysian products.

“Their contributions enhance transparency, support climate action, and help guide Malaysia toward a low-carbon, resilient economy,” he said.