Anwar said greater participation from these regions, whether through formal or informal engagements, would help shape a more equitable global economic framework and bridge the gap between the Global North and South.
“Greater participation from Latin American and African economies, either through formal or informal engagements, will translate the Apec agenda into something more substantially transformative, inclusive and truly impactful,” he said in his intervention speech during a session at the Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting here today.
Apec currently comprises 21 member economies, including several from the Global South such as Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, as well as advanced Global North economies like the US, Japan, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
However, Apec only includes three Latin American members – Chile, Mexico and Peru – and none from Africa.
Anwar said Apec’s voluntary and non-binding framework had made it a trailblazer in shaping global economic norms, from trade facilitation to environmental goods and plurilateral arrangements later adopted by the World Trade Organization.
He said the forum’s “ethos of persuasion rather than imposition” remained relevant in addressing current global challenges such as conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, which require dialogue and trust.
He said Apec was well-placed to incubate ideas on green growth, digital transformation, resilient supply chains, and clean energy transitions.
“These themes resonate deeply with Malaysia’s own aspirations under the Madani Economy: to build a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable economy that works for all,” he said.
He said the global transformation ahead requires collaboration among governments, industries, academia, and communities, adding that “collaborative governance is not about sharing power, but about sharing purpose”.
Earlier, Anwar said he received commendations for successfully hosting the 47th Asean Summit during an informal meeting with leaders on the sidelines of the meeting.
“I had the opportunity to have a casual meeting with fellow leaders. We exchanged views on various current and regional issues, including efforts for better equitable and resilient economic cooperation, in a warm and friendly atmosphere,” he said in a statement here.