(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 (KUNA) -- The ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Presidency on Friday called for stronger cooperation through joint projects in key areas, including maritime security, counter-terrorism, disaster preparedness, and better coordination with other ASEAN-led platforms.
In his opening remarks as Chairman of the 32nd ARF, Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hassan said "maritime tensions continue in key waterways, raising the risk of miscalculation. Cyber threats are escalating, undermining infrastructure, spreading disinformation, and eroding public trust."
"Climate change, once a distant risk, now presents multiple threats that worsen insecurity and displace communities," he added.
Malaysia's Foreign Minister emphasized that the ARF must be better equipped to respond swiftly and effectively, play a stronger role in early warning and response, especially in humanitarian crises, health emergencies, and conflict prevention.
The ASEAN Regional Forum is a multilateral dialogue platform established by ASEAN in 1994 to discuss security and political issues in the Asia-Pacific region, consisting of 27 countries.
The forum is being held as part of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting and Related Meetings, held from July 8 to 11, with the participation of more than 40 foreign ministers and representatives of international organizations. (end)
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