South Korea voices strong support for Malaysia's 2025 ASEAN chairmanship

Yeo expressed confidence in Malaysia's leadership to advance ASEAN's goals, especially amidst shifting dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.

"Malaysia's pivotal role in ASEAN will guide the region towards greater stability and prosperity. South Korea remains steadfast in its commitment to working alongside Malaysia in achieving these shared goals.

"South Korea is ready to fully support Malaysia in successfully fulfilling its role as ASEAN Chair. As a first step, both sides have coordinated the schedule to host the APEC Summit in South Korea, followed by the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia consecutively," he said at the Malaysia Scholars on Korea Network (MASK) programme titled "Elevated Malaysia-South Korea Ties" here, Tuesday.

The event was co-organised by ISIS Malaysia and the South Korean Embassy.

The ambassador said this back-to-back hosting arrangement will enable greater attendance from global leaders at both events.

As strategic partners, he said both countries are well-positioned to deepen cooperation across various fields including defence and economy.

On defence cooperation, Yeo emphasised South Korea's commitment to regional peace, particularly in maritime security and defence.

He added that Seoul's involvement in ASEAN-led mechanisms as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) underscores the importance of continued collaboration to address shared security challenges.

"South Korea is dedicated to supporting ASEAN's peace initiatives, and we look forward to deepening defence ties, especially in maritime security, cybersecurity and counter-terrorism efforts," Yeo said.

Meanwhile, on the ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) discussions between South Korea and ASEAN, which resumed in March this year, Yeo noted the significant progress made, with both sides aiming to foster economic growth through enhanced trade, investment and market access.

"The FTA holds transformative potential, not only for Malaysian businesses but also for all ASEAN members looking to expand in South Korea's market, particularly in the digital and green economy sectors," he said.

Yeo added the FTA aligns with ASEAN's vision of a region integrated through trade and sustainable development, enabling Malaysian businesses to benefit from new opportunities within South Korea's thriving sectors.

During the event, both ISIS Malaysia and the South Korean Embassy also signed an MoU to promote research, information and knowledge exchange. The terms cover joint research, publication, exchanges and the establishment of a chair in Korean studies.

Among the research areas are foreign policy, security, economics, technology, innovation, environment and sustainable development, and national unity.

The first MoU, signed in 2017, laid the foundation for MASK activities.

-- BERNAMA