KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship this year will be key to reinforcing regional unity as the US under Donald Trump reshapes global trade with steep tariffs.
Professor Shandre Mugan Thangavelu of the Jeffrey Cheah Institute said ASEAN must reaffirm its commitment to rules-based trade and regional integration amid rising protectionism.
“Malaysia must lead a coordinated response to Trump’s tariffs and strengthen ASEAN centrality through platforms like RCEP and AEC,” he said.
He noted RCEP offers a vital framework to tackle new challenges, including climate change, digitalisation, and smart city growth.
A dedicated RCEP Secretariat, he added, is essential.
Shandre also urged ASEAN to engage the US on emerging tech sectors — AI, robotics, EVs, and space — where the region can offer market access and value-chain participation, especially for SMEs.
He stressed the importance of restructuring supply chains, advancing ESG goals, and investing in a mobile, tech-savvy workforce to drive the digital and green economy.
“ASEAN must act fast to implement the Digital Economy Framework and shield vulnerable groups from tariff shocks,” he
said.
With US tariffs averaging 34 per cent across the region, Shandre warned of rising bilateralism that could undermine ASEAN unity.
“ASEAN centrality has anchored regional cooperation since 1967. Preserving it is crucial in today’s geo-economic landscape,” he said. – BERNAMA
