The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) has commended Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his role in mediating tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. This successful intervention marks a significant diplomatic milestone and reaffirms Malaysia’s leadership in ASEAN. Moreover, it paves the way for stronger regional cooperation and long-term economic integration.
FMM described the Prime Minister’s action as a strategic diplomatic success. The peaceful resolution not only avoided a potential crisis – it also reinforced ASEAN’s ability to resolve disputes through dialogue, diplomacy and unity.
According to FMM, political stability in ASEAN is essential. It enables smoother cross-border investments, stronger trade flows and more resilient supply chains. With ASEAN economies increasingly interconnected through shared production networks, any conflict could disrupt trade routes and weaken investor confidence.
Furthermore, this recent diplomatic success offers a valuable opportunity. It lays the groundwork for ASEAN to move faster on its shared economic agenda.
A Call to Action: Closing the ASEAN Trade Gap
With Malaysia currently holding the ASEAN Chairmanship for 2025, FMM urges ASEAN leaders to move beyond diplomacy and intensify economic collaboration efforts. The organisation recommends several key priorities:
- Mutual recognition of product standards
- Harmonised digital Customs systems
- Greater regulatory alignment across member states
Currently, intra-ASEAN trade accounts for only 22% of the bloc’s total trade – far behind the EU’s 60% benchmark. FMM believes narrowing this gap will be essential to fostering a more competitive, resilient, and self-sufficient regional economy.
Representing over 13,000 member companies from Malaysia’s manufacturing and supply chain sectors, FMM reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the government and ASEAN stakeholders.
As the voice of Malaysia’s industrial sector since 1968, FMM remains an active partner in shaping policy, promoting transparency, and supporting Malaysia’s leadership role in regional diplomacy and economic transformation. Today, it continues to work closely with government and ASEAN stakeholders to build a more connected, stable, and prosperous Southeast Asia.
