LIMA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) leaders must take bolder action to lead global economic cooperation and make the platform the gold standard in global governance.
Speaking at the Apec Leaders' Informal Dialogue with Guests here, Anwar said the economic cooperation body must be at the forefront of building an inclusive, sustainable and fair economy.
"The world is watching and we cannot afford to delay. Apec must become the benchmark for global economic cooperation.
"By ensuring strong global governance, building resilience and protecting the vulnerable and oppressed, we can provide a direction for a world that is not only prosperous but also sustainable and fair," he said.
Present were Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan; Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Deputy Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii, Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir and Isis chairman Datuk Prof Dr Mohd Faiz Abdullah.
Anwar also urged world leaders to act decisively to shape a new future.
He reminded them that global disruptions have become the new norm, necessitating a more proactive approach.
He stressed that APEC should establish an economic framework that not only ensures survival but is also resilient to shocks.
"Imagine a trade and investment environment where every Apec economy, whether big or small, developed or developing, can absorb shocks and continue to grow.
"This begins with deeper digital integration, strong green finance and a commitment to fair and transparent supply chains," he said.
The prime minister also called for the formation of new alliances with Asean, the African Union, and cross-border digital networks to strengthen global resilience.
He also highlighted the importance of supporting the vulnerable, who are the heart of society.
At the event, he suggested that Apec's resources be leveraged through cross-regional cooperation to address key issues such as digital education, financial access and climate sustainability.
"For example, cooperation with the Pacific Alliance in climate-smart agriculture or the implementation of affordable digital programmes through the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) could help bridge the digital divide and create new opportunities, especially in rural areas," he said.
Anwar also outlined the potential for cooperation between Apec and BRICS to strengthen the global economic framework.
He said the collaboration could drive more inclusive and sustainable economic growth, including digital cooperation based on shared values.
In his speech, the prime minister highlighted humanitarian issues, including the plight of the oppressed and victims of atrocities based on religion or race, such as the Palestinians.
"We cannot view economic development solely from a materialistic perspective. We must ensure justice for the poor, the oppressed and victims of atrocities," he said.
Anwar concluded his speech with a call for Apec to act boldly in building a better and fairer future for all.