KUALA LUMPUR: Asean has launched three new initiatives that are set to represent the legacy of Malaysia’s chairmanship this year and to guide the regional group’s member states into the future, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. 

The three initiatives are - the MSME Excellence Centre for Green Transition in Asean (Mega); the report, Asean Ahead: Asean Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Ecosystem Foresight 2035 and Beyond; and the book, Asean in 2025: Shaping an Inclusive and Sustainable Future. 

Mohamad said the three initiatives are the culmination of months of collaboration, reflection and vision. 

“Each, in its own way, prepares Asean for a changing world. Together, they affirm our collective determination, to shop a future that is inclusive and sustainable,” said Mohamad in his opening remarks at the launching ceremony of the Asean Initiatives on Inclusivity and Sustainability on Friday (Oct 24). 

According to Mohamad, the MEGA initiative embodies the principle that economic transformation must begin at the grassroots, as micro, small and medium enterprises are the backbone of the Asean economy. 

“Thought MEGA, these MSMEs will gain access to an education and training hub that will facilitate their transition to green, sustainable business models. 

“By enabling all businesses to participate in the green transition, we are not only protecting livelihoods, but also preparing Asean’s economy for the realities of a low-carbon future,” said Mohamad. 

Mohamad said the second initiative, which is the Asean Ahead: Asean STI Ecosystem Foresight 2035 and Beyond report, aims to prepare Asean for the future. 

“In this regard, foresight is not gazing into a crystal ball, hoping to predict the future, but about readiness,” he said. 

According to Mohamad, the report identifies the trends, disruptions and opportunities that will define science, technology and innovation in the next decade and for Asean’s collective prosperity. 

“Through this, we will ensure that Asean’s progress is guided not by chance, but by choice. Grounded in knowledge, driven by innovation, and directed toward a future that is inclusive and sustainable,” he said, 

Mohamad said the third initiative, the Asean in 2025: Shaping an Inclusive and Sustainable future book, consists of contributions from over thirty of the region’s leading thinkers where it gathers ideas across geopolitics, sustainability, trade, economics and technology. 

“These themes will define our shared destiny. 

“This book reminds us that Asean’s centrality and relevance cannot be taken as a foregone conclusion. 

“Rather, it demands continuous reflection, renewal, and reinvention,” said Mohamad. 

Mohamad said these three initiatives reflect Malaysia’s approach throughout its chairmanship this year. 

“As we prepare to conclude our chairmanship, we do so with confidence that Asean remains strong, united and ready to face the future. 

“The work continues, but so does the conviction that together, this region can remain a beacon of inclusivity and sustainability for the world,” said Mohamad. 

Speaking to reporters later, Mohamad said the three new initiatives will guide leaders in the Asean Community Vision 2045. 

“As a permanent driver, we want the next 20 years of the Asean Community Vision 2045 to be based on development so that we won’t lose track of things. 

“We want development that is managed well,” said Mohamad.   

The 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits will conclude on Oct 28.