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Asean leaders fortify unity amid growing global challenges
Asean leaders fortify unity amid growing global challenges

New Straits Times

time4 days ago

  • Business
  • New Straits Times

Asean leaders fortify unity amid growing global challenges

KUALA LUMPUR: The 46th Asean Summit, under Malaysia's chairmanship, has reaffirmed the bloc's commitment to navigating an increasingly complex global landscape, championing unity, economic resilience and principled diplomacy. As the curtains closed on the summit, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim underscored the leaders' resolve to confront mounting geopolitical and economic pressures from the humanitarian crisis in Gaza to the intensifying strategic competition between global powers. Anwar emphasised that Asean must act with a collective voice, grounded in multilateralism and inclusive decision-making. Under Malaysia's chairmanship, one of the most notable institutional developments was the reaffirmation that Timor-Leste's accession to Asean is firmly on track, with full membership expected by October. In his closing press conference, Anwar reiterated Malaysia's strong support for Timor-Leste's integration, pledging that the bloc would do "whatever necessary" to facilitate the process under the Asean Foreign Ministers' framework. The summit also addressed the prolonged Myanmar crisis, with Asean leaders agreeing to push for an expanded nationwide ceasefire as a necessary precursor to inclusive political dialogue. Anwar, who recently engaged both Myanmar's junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and the opposition National Unity Government, said Asean remained a neutral platform for trust-building and eventual reconciliation. One of the summit highlights was the adoption of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Asean 2025 and Beyond, a long-term strategic framework aimed at reinforcing Asean centrality and enhancing the bloc's role on the global stage. The declaration envisions a more assertive and responsive Asean in addressing regional concerns like the South China Sea and the Myanmar conflict. Nusantara Academy for Strategic Research senior fellow Dr Azmi Hassan described the declaration as Malaysia's signal that Asean must evolve to stay relevant. "The two main strategies are to increase Asean's involvement globally and reinforce the centrality concept. "This includes staying neutral, especially in great power rivalries and trade conflicts, and being more proactive in shaping the global discourse," he said. While the KL Declaration outlines a 20-year vision, Azmi believes its key goals are achievable within the next three to four years, depending on the direction set by future Asean chairs. "Even as the Philippines takes over the chairmanship next year, Malaysia wants to remain in the pilot seat," he added. On the economic front, the summit produced a strong regional response to the United States' retaliatory tariffs, which target Asean exports with duties ranging from 10 to 49 per cent. Anwar made it clear that unilateral trade actions threatened global economic stability and undermined Asean's commitment to fair and open trade. He confirmed that the bloc would pursue engagement with Washington through diplomatic channels, favouring cooperation over confrontation. As such, any decisions made in regards to the tariffs should not be made to the detriment of other member countries. In a major diplomatic breakthrough, the summit also hosted the inaugural trilateral meeting between Asean, China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This, in itself, was a coup of sorts, as Anwar described the gathering attended by Chinese Premier Li Qiang as a strategic milestone and a testament to Asean's growing convening power. This summit was apart from the Asean-GCC Summit, held for only the second time. Anwar said the spirit of Asean centrality remains critical to regional cooperation. The Asean-GCC-China Summit also saw a united call by Asean, China and the GCC for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza. It condemned attacks on civilians and demanded full humanitarian access, including the restoration of essential services such as water, electricity, food, fuel and medicine. In his closing press conference, Anwar said the summit represented one of the most substantive milestones in Asean's history. He added that the summit had successfully achieved its objectives, attributing the outcome to the strong support and unity among Asean leaders, as well as the bloc's first meaningful simultaneous engagement with the GCC and China. He also said Malaysia's chairmanship would continue to focus on building a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient Asean, in line with the bloc's long-term vision.

Asean News Headlines at 10pm on Monday (May 26, 2025)
Asean News Headlines at 10pm on Monday (May 26, 2025)

The Star

time26-05-2025

  • Business
  • The Star

Asean News Headlines at 10pm on Monday (May 26, 2025)

Malaysia: * Asean marks a defining chapter of regional integration with KL Declaration, says Anwar * Asean leaders agree to strengthen regional trade and investments, says Anwar * Asean parliaments must be key partner in advancing community-building agenda, says Anwar * I wrote to Trump for support to organise Asean-US meeting, says Anwar * Anwar advocates for political cooperation in Asia at CPC dialogue * Chinese premier Li Qiang flies into KL for Asean-GCC-China Summit * Anwar, Kuwait Crown Prince discuss stronger ties, investment * Malaysia and China unite: Shared values strengthen bilateral ties * Health Ministry offers free Tdap vaccination for pregnant women * Ringgit's immediate prospects bright as foreign inflows rise * Sungai Linggi set to boost Melaka ecotourism, says Chief Minister * Awes 2025 vital platform for women's leadership and economic growth, says Fadhlina * Tabung Haji ensures comfort for Malaysian pilgrims amid scorching heat on day of Arafah * Higher Education Ministry: No objection to Sarawak's free higher education initiative * US move to bar international students from Harvard is regressive, says Zambry * Sabah to host Asean Travel Exchange 2025, gathering influential tourism players * MOOve it: Perak wants farmers to graze their cows in state-designated fields * RON95 subsidy rationalisation to be implemented in 2H2025, says Amir Hamzah KUALA LUMPUR, Monday, May 26: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (front, fifth left) poses for a group photo after the signing ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Asean 2045: Our Shared Future at the 46th Asean Summit at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre the front, from left are Myanmar Permanent Secretary Ministry Foreign Affairs Aung Kyaw Moe, Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh the front, from right are Timor-Leste's Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão as an observer, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto, Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet, Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and Philippine President, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. - Bernama Photo Singapore: * Safe clubbing campaign returns in Singapore but molestation and fights in nightspots continue to be concerns * Singapore's Home Team humanoid robots to be deployed by mid-2027, RM330mil to be invested, says information minister * Malaysia, Singapore agree to strengthen investment and trade cooperation * Malaysia, Singapore enhance regional healthcare collaboration * Nine years' jail for Singapore ex-cop on the run for nearly 17 years after obtaining S$47.7k in bribes * HK actor Damian Lau and Singaporean star Zoe Tay reunite after 10 years * Live show to mark Singapore's 60th birthday will extend from Padang to Marina Bay for first time * More than US$507,000 lost in Singapore to fake friend scams since April * How a Singaporean managed his agoraphobia without hospital treatment * 84-year-old pedestrian dies in Choa Chu Kang accident; minibus driver arrested * Asian stocks, euro gain after Trump delays EU tariffs * Reaching world No. 1 a boost for Malaysia's Goh-Izzuddin ahead of Singapore Open Indonesia: * Indonesia to roll out economic stimulus package to boost consumption * Malaysia, Indonesia to lead setting-up of Asean Halal Council * All 10 Asean leaders sign KL declaration on 'Our Shared Future' * Timor-Leste nearing full Asean membership * Indonesian man killed by crocodile in Kinabatangan * Indonesia seizes record two tonnes of crystal meth hidden in fishing boat * Famed for Komodo dragons, Labuan Bajo rises as holiday hot spot, but overtourism remains a risk * Indonesian energy deregulation vow draws global giants * Glotec's unit begins drilling Indonesia's first commercial CBM well * Oil climbs after Trump extends EU trade talks deadline to July * Li woos Jakarta ahead of summit - Indonesia-China cooperation seems to be rising Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, right, greets Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto before the plenary session at the Association of South-East Asian Nations (Asean) Summit in Kuala Lumpur Monday, May 26, 2025.-- Mohd Rasfan/Pool Photo via AP Thailand: * Thai growth may be just over 1% in 2025 due to US tariffs , minister says * South-East Asia must keep joining global supply chains, says Thailand * Thai wine tax cut backfires: Consumption soars, state loses millions * Thai PM calls for new Asean strategy to tackle US tariffs * Thai banks slash interest rates to prop up wobbling economy * Motor racing-Thailand plans to submit bid for F1 race in 2028 * Thailand eyes swift tariff deal with US, signalling aircraft purchases * Paetongtarn denies UK meeting with Yingluck, says Thaksin is in Thailand * Thailand: Prescription and quantity cap to weed out herb smuggling Philippines: * Chinese Premier Li Qiang says China eyes stronger cooperation with GCC and Asean for interests of global south * Philippines open to more agreements with China to keep peace in South China Sea * Four dead and one critically hurt in village hall shooting near Philippines' south Manila * Dial 911 anywhere: Philippine govt aims to launch emergency call system nationwide * Marcos calls for legally binding South China Sea Code of Conduct * Three Filipinos sentenced for smuggling green turtle parts in Sabah waters * Philippine peso advances to strongest since 2023 on dollar, oil * Over 21,500 cops to flood Metro Manila streets in visibility drive * Flooded Mindanao areas need help to avoid poll-related violence and humanitarian crisis KUALA LUMPUR, May 26: Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet signs the Kuala Lumpur Declaration on Asean 2045: Our Shared Future at the Signing Ceremony in the Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) on are Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah (left) and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto (right). - Photo: Bernama Vietnam: * France has signed 9bil euros worth of contracts in Vietnam so far, Macron says * France and Vietnam sign Airbus, defence deals as Macron visits Hanoi * Elysee plays down apparent shove on Macron from wife in Vietnam * Agreement signed for power export from Vietnam to Malaysia, Singapore * Foreign companies show appreciation for proactive response in Vietnam to US tariff policies * As summer travel season heats up in Vietnam, experts issue warnings against online scams * Vietnam police detain man over damage to ancient throne * France's Macron in Vietnam to offer third way between US, China Myanmar: * KL Declaration charts new frontiers for Asean unity and innovation * Asean Youth Dialogue delegates call for inclusive policies for sustainable development * Mine destroys freight train on Myanmar railway; cars derailed, tracks damaged * Asean mulls special envoy to Myanmar, says Malaysian minister * Writing history in every stroke -- Script forged by religion and colonialism now an identity. * Eleven countries demand EU weakens deforestation law further, document shows KUALA LUMPUR, May 26: Sultan of Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah arrives at the Gala Dinner in conjunction with the 46th Asean Summit, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, tonight. -- Photo: Bernama Cambodia: * Malaysia signs deal to initiate trade talks with GCC, eyes expansion of businesses * Investment, cybersecurity among matters discussed between Anwar, Cambodian PM * Climate-smart farming ends migration cycle in Cambodia * Russian prosecutor general in Cambodia for first time, days after high profile extradition * China province commits to promoting Cambodian tourism industry * Asian firms eye expansion beyond US Laos: * Laos and Malaysia establish strategic rail-sea trade link * Vietnamese, Cambodian and Laos PMs meet for breakfast and business at Asean Summit * Lao festival in Japan showcases country's tourist attractions * Lao people pin hopes on China-Laos Railway for agricultural export growth * scams: Watch for these fake emails targeting users Brunei: * Brunei King, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, arrives in Malaysia for 46th Asean Summit * Spotlight falls on Asean transport plan * Asian currencies rise as US fiscal woes, policy shifts weigh on dollar * Misinformation casts shadow on US-China trade truce KUALA LUMPUR, May 26 —Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (right) and Chinese Premier Li Qiang (left) shake hands during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the 46th Asean Summit at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) today. - Photo: Bernama AseanPlus: * Asean leaders assemble in KL today for key summit, related meetings * Fadillah: Malaysia urges Asean unity for fair, inclusive energy transition * Address long-standing trade barriers, Asean members told * Strategic ties, Palestinian cause dominate Asean-GCC summit agenda * Evolving ties: Malaysia and China shift from trade to innovation partnership * 46th Asean Summit key platform for boosting regional cooperation, says PMO * Asean-GCC-China model will help forge inclusive, sustainable future, says Anwar * Slow start for hotel industry as international travellers remain cautious * Trade upgrade coming for Asean / Asean renews call to uphold international law in Gaza * What are robot chefs cooking up for South Korea's struggling school kitchens? * Bear stops play! Japan golf event ended after furry sighting * South Korean boy who went missing in 1989 found, reunited with family * South Koreans eye constitutional change to president's power after martial law * N. Korea detains another official over warship launch accident * Bangladesh court begins first trial of Hasina-era officials * India-US yield gap hits 20-year low / Japan signals intent for US tariff deal in June * Hong Kong IPOs raise over US$9.7bil so far in 2025 * Jailed but not failed: Inmates in Nepal turn prison into industrial unit * From first rice to emergence of cities, light shed on origins of civilisation in China * South Korea sees sharp rise in synthetic cannabis use among teenagers * Chinese ambassador criticises plan to return Darwin Port to Australian ownership * Hong Kong urges universities to facilitate students after Harvard ban * TVB actress Nancy Sit, 75, rekindles romance with man 17 years her junior * Israel's latest strikes in Gaza kill 38 people including children * Caste enumeration to aid inclusion; no politics involved, says Modi * Shark control funding boost to increase beach safety in North-East Australia * South Koreans eye constitutional change to presidential power after martial law * China university criticised for requiring student to lower pants for menstrual pain leave * HK star Nicholas Tse launches chilli crab mayo hot dog for JJ Lin's concert * Integrative medicine approach key to increased cancer survival in China * South Korea presidential candidate Lee says to restore hotline with North Korea * Protests grip Bangladesh as pressure mounts on Yunus-led government * Japan's Narita Airport to build third runway * Japan pledges to cut rice price with direct sales to retailers * Rita, Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin at Hong Kong's Ocean Park, dies at 24 * Ishiba: Cooperation in shipbuilding to be focal point in tariff talks; progress seems lacking on auto tariffs * Rewriting Bollywood's macho script -- Women filmmakers challenge narrative norms to global and local acclaim * Japan's Chisato Iwai wins first LPGA title with six-stroke romp at MEXICO Riviera Maya Open at Mayakoba

KL Declaration: A call to secure ASEAN's regional sovereignty, economic resilience amid evolving challenges
KL Declaration: A call to secure ASEAN's regional sovereignty, economic resilience amid evolving challenges

Borneo Post

time26-05-2025

  • Business
  • Borneo Post

KL Declaration: A call to secure ASEAN's regional sovereignty, economic resilience amid evolving challenges

The Kuala Lumpur Declaration is a milestone ASEAN document that established the ASEAN Community in 2015. – Bernama photo KUALA LUMPUR (May 26): As the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) navigates an increasingly complex and competitive global landscape, the Kuala Lumpur Declaration (KL Declaration) must stand as more than just a ceremonial statement. The KL Declaration is a milestone ASEAN document that both established the ASEAN Community in 2015 and set a strategic vision for ASEAN integration and cooperation through 2025. It is a representation of the commitment of ASEAN member states to forge a sovereign, peaceful, and neutral regional community that rejects all forms of foreign interference and prioritizes regional cooperation to ensure long-term stability and shared prosperity. The KL Declaration should not only showcase these standards but lay out clear, measurable steps to address emerging challenges such as economic volatility, digital disruption and geopolitical instability. To do so, ASEAN must move past rhetorical declarations and deliver strategies that are both future-oriented and inclusive. In today's interconnected world, the push for regional sovereignty must be carefully balanced against economic interdependence. ASEAN nations are deeply embedded in the global value chain and remain heavily reliant on trade with major global powers such as the United States, China, and the European Union. Dr. Jerome Kueh As Universiti Malaysia Sarawak Associate Professor Dr. Jerome Kueh explain:, 'The Kuala Lumpur Declaration will serve as a platform of commitment among ASEAN members in deepening cooperation while safeguarding sovereignty.' This is especially relevant amid the recent trade tensions, particularly between the U.S. and China, which exposed the ASEAN nations' vulnerabilities of being dependent on single or limited trading partners. Dr. Kueh argues that a realistic path forward lies in diversifying trade partnerships through regional mechanisms such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). 'These mega-regional trade agreements can mitigate overdependence on a few major partners and open access to broader markets,' he notes. At the same time, strengthening intra-ASEAN trade and deepening regional supply chains are critical steps to building economic resilience. The KL Declaration should also recognse ASEAN's growing potential as a digital economy powerhouse. Recent projections estimate that ASEAN's digital economy could exceed USD1 trillion by 2030, underscoring the scale of opportunity ahead. According to Dr. Kueh, harmonizing digital policies across member states is key to unlocking this potential. He proposes that ASEAN countries create cohesive data governance frameworks, including policies that enable cross-border data flows, consistent privacy regulations, and standardised electronic payment systems. These initiatives alongside investment in digital infrastructure and cybersecurity, would foster an inclusive digital ecosystem across the region. 'Capitalizing on digital economic strength is critical to create a more robust regional economy,' Dr. Kueh adds. 'It can also help reduce reliance on Western technology firms and attract international investors looking for unified digital markets.' A seamless digital environment would also empower local innovators and startups to scale their solutions across borders, making sure no country gets left behind in the digital era. One of the recurring criticisms of ASEAN is its tendency toward consensus-driven but vague declarations, often lacking in concrete implementation. The KL Declaration must break this cycle by introducing measurable goals and accountability mechanisms. Dr. Syahruddin Awang Ahmad Associate Professor Dr. Syahruddin Awang Ahmad, Deputy Dean of Research, Innovation and Commercialisation at Universiti Malaysia Sabah, suggests that ASEAN should adopt the SMART framework – 'Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound' objectives. He points to ASEAN's previous initiatives, such as the Drug-Free ASEAN Declaration, as examples where general intentions could have been strengthened by measurable targets. 'Instead of broadly committing to drug-free communities, ASEAN could aim for a 20% reduction in drug-related arrests or a 15% increase in rehabilitation admissions by a specific date,' Dr. Syahruddin explains. To ensure results, ASEAN must also empower its Secretariat with greater executive authority and technical resources to monitor and enforce progress. He advocates for annual reporting, public scorecards, and peer reviews that allow member states to learn from each other's successes and failures in order to foster a culture of continuous improvement. For the KL Declaration to succeed, evidence-based policymaking must be the foundation of which academic research and innovation come in. Universities and think tanks in the region can play a vital role by conducting data-driven studies that help shape more effective strategies. 'Academic research is crucial for understanding the socio-economic roots of complex issues,' says Dr. Syahruddin. For example, research conducted by Universiti Malaya on drug abuse patterns or youth awareness campaigns can directly inform ASEAN-wide policies on public health and social welfare. Innovation could bring in practical tools and solutions including advanced border screening technologies to virtual reality therapy tools for rehabilitation. Moreover, community-led intervention programs pioneered by local NGOs offer localised approaches that are often more effective than top-down policies. Together, research and innovation create a feedback loop that supports smarter, more adaptive governance in line with the Declaration's goals. Malaysia is uniquely positioned to take on a leading role in driving ASEAN's strategic transformation as the country possesses both the technological capacity and diplomatic credibility to act as a regional catalyst for innovation, sustainability, and cooperation. Dr. Syahruddin believes Malaysia can lead by example in smart city development, digital governance, and fintech adoption. 'Malaysia can harness innovation to promote regional cooperation by championing initiatives that leverage technology to solve common ASEAN challenges,' he explains. Initiatives such as cross-border e-payment systems, fintech for SMEs, and clean energy solutions can uplift the entire region, making shared prosperity a reality rather than a slogan. By supporting scalable startups and building regional innovation hubs, Malaysia can reduce development gaps and encourage inclusive growth across ASEAN. As the KL Declaration takes shape, ASEAN must deliver real outcomes that make a difference in the lives of its 670 million people. This moment calls for bold leadership, regional unity, and visionary policymaking backed by measurable plans and inclusive collaboration. In the words of Dr. Jerome, 'It will be realistic if all the member countries are coordinated in regional initiatives, institutional readiness, and pragmatic trade diplomacy.' The stakes are high which without decisive action, ASEAN risks being pulled into the geopolitical crossfire between major powers. However, with a shared commitment to sovereignty, peace, and neutrality, the KL Declaration has the potential to lay the foundation for a stronger and more resilient ASEAN.

KL Declaration shows Asean's resolve to unite against threats, says academic
KL Declaration shows Asean's resolve to unite against threats, says academic

Free Malaysia Today

time25-05-2025

  • Business
  • Free Malaysia Today

KL Declaration shows Asean's resolve to unite against threats, says academic

International law expert Yazid Zul Kepli said the KL Declaration must reflect the political will of Asean countries to build a 'more meaningful' consensus. (AP pic) PETALING JAYA : A cybersecurity analyst has described the upcoming Kuala Lumpur Declaration as a crucial measure to improve inclusivity and sustainability in Southeast Asia's response to emerging threats. Mizan Aslam of the National Defence University of Malaysia said these threats include cyber warfare and other security concerns that require targeted strategies and resilience. Mizan Mohammad Aslam. The international affairs lecturer said Asean could no longer respond using conventional means, but must undergo digital transformation and develop exceptional economic sustainability and resilience. 'We need to ensure that everything is under our full control so that major powers acknowledge Asean's significance, both in terms of economic strength and our ability to resolve conflicts diplomatically without war. 'If that happens, Malaysia and Asean will gain greater respect and become key reference points in global issues,' he told FMT. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim previously said that the KL Declaration, to be unveiled at the 46th Asean Summit from May 26 to 27, would serve as a blueprint for the region's future. Yazid Zul Kepli of International Islamic University Malaysia said the declaration must reflect the bloc's political will to boost unity, particularly in resolving regional disputes. Yazid Zul Kepli. He said unity was the foundation of regional resilience, and must be translated into concrete action against external pressures. 'The KL Declaration must reflect a strong political will to make Asean more united, bold, and progressive in addressing current and future challenges. 'This would solidify Asean's role as a central, relevant force in global affairs, and help protect its member states from divisive foreign influence,' the academic who specialises in international law said. Yazid added that Asean should strive to become a zone of peace, free from foreign military or economic interference. To achieve that, he said the declaration must call for stronger protection of Asean's economic interests against global market volatility, especially when driven by superpower rivalries. 'For example, building a stronger economic bloc through the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership could help deepen integration and reduce reliance on outside powers. 'This approach not only protects Asean's internal market but also collectively enhances its global competitiveness,' he said.

Kuala Lumpur Declaration will shape Asean future, says Anwar
Kuala Lumpur Declaration will shape Asean future, says Anwar

The Star

time22-05-2025

  • Politics
  • The Star

Kuala Lumpur Declaration will shape Asean future, says Anwar

PUTRAJAYA: The Kuala Lumpur Declaration, a set of key documents representing the culmination of the upcoming Asean Summit 2025, will prepare the ground for the regional grouping's future in governance, stra­tegic preparedness and digital transformation, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The Prime Minister said the Kuala Lumpur Declaration, which will be unveiled at the 46th Asean Summit next Monday reflects Asean's collective commitment to move beyond rhetoric and getting into action on key issues. 'Governance, digital development and the future, these are the areas we will address thoroughly in the KL Declaration,' said Anwar when briefing the media on the Asean Summit and related summits last night. The Prime Minister said peace and security are the important preconditions for regional prog­ress and the KL Declaration add­resses this by identifying the strategic focus areas for Asean's next phase of development. 'Sub-regional and regional groupings are also demanding more than just cooperation and understanding. They want speci­fics and the KL Declaration add­res­ses that,' he said. Anwar also said the document was discussed and refined during the recent Asean leaders' session. 'Most of the content is already known among member states. What is important now is the firm commitment to act on it,' he added. The Asean Summit will see ­foreign minister-level meetings on Sunday, while the Leaders' Summit will commence for two days beginning the following day. On another matter, the Prime Minister maintained there will be no Cabinet reshuffle after the PKR polls, but no ministers will be stopped from resigning if they wish to do so. He described the party polls as a competition between close friends and urged PKR members to vote for those who are capable of strengthening the party machi­nery. 'The issue of Cabinet reshuffle does not arise... but, we cannot stop anyone's ambitions. 'They think it (minister) has to be replaced, it is normal. But if you ask me, there are no plans to carry out any Cabinet reshuffle,' he said. Recently, Datuk Seri Rafizi Ram­li announced his readiness to step down as Economy Minister if he fails to defend the deputy presidency in the party elections tomorrow. Rafizi is set to defend the post against Nurul Izzah Anwar, who is the Prime Minister's daughter. Anwar also refuted suggestions the intense PKR polls will create the impression among Asean ­delegates that Malaysia is politically unstable. 'Only if politics is stable, we are able to contest party positions. 'If it is unstable or a dictatorship, then there will not be contests at all levels. 'So, we must look at it positively and it will not affect anything,' said Anwar.

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