She also underscored the need for stronger collaboration to address shared security and economic challenges, to ensure that the region remains resilient amid rising geopolitical tensions.
“We are counting on Malaysia to pursue closer collaboration and make full use of existing Asean mechanisms in tackling pressing transboundary issues that are impacting the security and well-being of our peoples, such as drug trafficking, online scams, and transboundary haze and air pollution,” she told Bernama in a written interview.
Malaysia assumed the 2025 chairmanship of Asean on Jan 1. This is the fifth time it has led the regional grouping since its establishment in 1967, having previously chaired Asean in 1977, 1997, 2005, and 2015.
Over 300 key meetings and programmes are scheduled to take place across the country throughout the year.
On Asean unity, Paetongtarn expressed confidence in Malaysia’s leadership, saying it would play a key role in sustaining regional peace and stability.
“Malaysia’s initiatives, such as the Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council + China Summit, reflect Asean’s commitment to strategic engagement with external partners amid global tensions. This approach will help Asean navigate geopolitical and geo-economic uncertainties,” she said.
She said Thailand and Malaysia, two of Asean’s five founding members, should prioritise the effective implementation of the upcoming Asean Community Vision 2045 to build a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centred bloc.
“As the Asean coordinator for sustainable development cooperation, Thailand will work closely with Malaysia to advance the implementation of sustainable development goals across the region.
“We will also champion ‘Green Asean’ initiatives, ensuring that they align with Asean’s long-term vision and Malaysia’s chairmanship theme,” she said.
As major power rivalries and regional disputes reshape Southeast Asia’s geopolitical landscape, Paetongtarn said that Thailand and Malaysia must continue playing a proactive and constructive role in maintaining Asean’s stability and economic resilience.
She said both countries must reinforce multilateralism and regional cooperation to ensure that Asean remains united and steadfast amid rising uncertainties.
“Together, Thailand and Malaysia can lead Asean in diversifying economic foundations, enhancing competitiveness, and safeguarding the region’s collective interests on the global stage,” she said.
Paetongtarn also stressed the need for closer cooperation in fostering strategic partnerships, upholding Asean centrality, and promoting regional peace and prosperity.
She welcomed Malaysia’s commitment as Asean chair to strengthening key regional mechanisms, particularly the East Asia Summit and Asean Plus Three, to deepen dialogue and cooperation for greater regional stability.
“This will be instrumental in advancing Malaysia’s efforts to enhance regional stability and prosperity under its chairmanship. Thailand stands ready to fully support this endeavour,” she said.
On the appointment of her father, former prime minister Thaksin, as an informal adviser for Malaysia’s 2025 Asean chairmanship, Paetongtarn said that “he serves in a personal capacity, and any views or opinions expressed in this role would be his own”.
However, she added that Thaksin’s extensive political and business experience – particularly his knowledge of Asean’s political landscape and regional development – could help enhance cooperation among Asean member states.
“As a seasoned politician and entrepreneur with vast experience in Asean affairs, particularly in Thailand’s neighbouring countries, I believe he can contribute to fostering closer cooperation on issues of common benefit among Asean member states,” she said.
Anwar announced the appointment of Thaksin as an informal adviser to assist Malaysia as Asean chair for 2025 on Dec 16 last year.
Thaksin served as Thai prime minister from 2001 to 2006.