Kuala Lampur, Feb. 9 -- As Malaysia assumes the Asean chairmanship in 2025, expectations are naturally high. Detractors argue that Malaysia lacks a coherent roadmap, that the chairmanship risks becoming overly associated with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and that Asean remains ineffective in addressing regional crises. However, such criticisms overlook the depth of Malaysia's strategic vision, the unique leadership that Anwar brings, and the shifting geopolitical realities that make this chairmanship a critical opportunity for recalibrating Asean's global role.

Asean's strategic moment: Why Malaysia's leadership matters

Asean stands at a crossroads. The global economic order is in flux, transnational crime is on the rise, cyber threats...