The World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025 in Davos provided ASEAN nations with a crucial platform to showcase their growing influence in the global economy and share their vision for the future. Under the theme "Cooperation in the Age of Intelligence," ASEAN leaders engaged in discussions on strategies to foster peace, stability, and inclusive growth.
Vietnam: Advocating for Peace and Innovation
Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chính emphasized that peace is the foundation of economic development. He called for an economic strategy focused on science, technology, innovation, and digitalization, underlining that ASEAN is a region with "incredible vitality." Chính urged his counterparts to set more ambitious goals and embrace a broader vision for the future.
Malaysia: Strengthening Energy and Digital Connectivity
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted the need for stronger regional cooperation in energy and connectivity. He advocated for the establishment of an ASEAN energy grid and the development of alternative energy technologies that benefit the entire region. Anwar also stressed the importance of inclusive AI and digital transformation policies to ensure that all ASEAN countries benefit equally from technological advancements.
Digital Economy and Human Capital
A major topic of discussion was ASEAN’s integration into the digital economy. The region is currently developing a Digital Economic Framework Agreement (DEFA), aimed at doubling ASEAN’s digital economy to $2 trillion by 2030. This initiative seeks to boost regional digital integration and enhance the competitiveness of ASEAN member states.
Another key focus at WEF 2025 was education and workforce development. Leaders emphasized that investment in youth education and higher learning is critical to unlocking the region’s full potential. By ensuring a highly skilled workforce, ASEAN can position itself as a global leader in the era of digital transformation.
Conclusion
At WEF 2025, ASEAN nations reinforced their shared commitment to peace, cooperation, and inclusive growth. They presented themselves as a stable, dynamic, and forward-looking region, ready to take a leading role in the global economy of the Age of Intelligence.
References
World Economic Forum. (2025, January). ASEAN’s economic future: Even stronger together. Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/meetings/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2025/sessions/asean-even-stronger-together/
World Economic Forum. (2025, January). World conflict and the risks of ignoring it at Davos 2025. Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/01/davos-world-conflict-ignoring
World Economic Forum. (2025, January). ASEAN's growing economic influence at Davos 2025. Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/stories/2025/01/asean-attractive-region-in-2025-leaders-at-davos
Prime Minister’s Office of Malaysia. (2025, January). World Economic Forum 2025: ASEAN even stronger together - Speech by the Prime Minister of Malaysia at the WEF Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland. Retrieved from https://www.pmo.gov.my/2025/01/world-economic-forum-2025-asean-even-stronger-together-asean-plenary-by-yab-prime-minister-of-malaysia-to-the-world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-davos-switzerland-2/
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). (2025, January). Secretary-General of ASEAN to attend World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland. Retrieved from https://asean.org/secretary-general-of-asean-to-attend-world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2025-in-davos-klosters-switzerland/
Commentaires