KUALA LUMPUR, April 6 – Amidst Malaysia’s forthcoming chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025, New Zealand emerges as a key partner in fostering greater collaboration within the 10-member regional grouping, said the New Zealand Malaysia Business Association (NZMBA).
President of NZMBA based in Auckland, Dave Ananth, underscores the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships between ASEAN and New Zealand across various sectors, including sustainable agriculture development, renewable energy, and technology.
“Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 presents a momentous occasion for regional cooperation and engagement. Through strategic partnerships with external stakeholders like New Zealand and NZMBA, ASEAN can navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and emerge as a dynamic force for positive change in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond,” he said.
He said in recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainable agriculture worldwide, and the combination of New Zealand’s advanced agricultural techniques and ASEAN’s abundant resources creates a promising opportunity for collaboration.
Dave also emphasised the need for innovative solutions to address food security challenges and promote environmentally sustainable practices.
“Moreover, the transition towards renewable energy sources is paramount in combating climate change and New Zealand’s advancements in renewable energy technologies can complement ASEAN’s efforts towards a greener future,” Dave added.
Commenting further on Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN, Dave said one notable aspect of Malaysia’s chairmanship is its engagement with external partners, including NZMBA which plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and investment between the two countries.
“With Malaysia at the helm of ASEAN, there are opportunities for deeper collaboration between ASEAN and New Zealand across various sectors, including trade, education, and tourism,” he added.
He also said Malaysia needs to look at food sustainability and learn from New Zealand.
“I would like Malaysia to walk the talk and take the lead in food production,” he said, adding that the Malaysia-New Zealand business community brings a wealth of experience and insights to the table.
