Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday called for greater adaptability and cooperation among ASEAN nations to navigate the growing challenges of protectionism and global uncertainty as he inaugurated the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.

“Rising protectionism and shifting supply chains remind us that resilience depends on adaptability,” Anwar said in his opening address, warning that increasing contestation across regions is testing both economies and the collective resolve to preserve faith in dialogue and cooperation.

The summit convened at a time when tariff wars and trade disruptions are deeply affecting Southeast Asian economies. U.S. President Donald Trump, whose trade policies have reshaped global markets, is attending as a special guest, while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing the event virtually.

The gathering also marks a significant milestone for ASEAN as Timor-Leste formally becomes the bloc’s 11th member, joining Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Brunei, and Myanmar.

Anwar, who currently chairs ASEAN, emphasized that the region’s success rests on a foundation of consensus, communication, and solidarity. He urged member states to strengthen ties through ASEAN-led mechanisms such as the East Asia Summit and ASEAN Regional Forum while revitalizing geostrategic frameworks like the Zone of Peace, Freedom, and Neutrality (ZOPFAN).

Welcoming Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa as guests, Anwar highlighted ASEAN’s efforts to deepen engagement with BRICS and the G20, which South Africa chairs this year. “In an unpredictable world, our fate is shared. Only through cooperation and adaptability can ASEAN remain strong and relevant,” he said.