47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur Highlights Regional Integration Amid Philippines Typhoon Impact

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is set to attend the 47th ASEAN Summit and related summits in Kuala Lumpur, where leaders will focus on community-building, promoting an inclusive and stable regional architecture, and enhancing economic integration, especially in digital and green economies. Malaysia's chairmanship theme, “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” reflects efforts to build a resilient ASEAN amid geopolitical challenges. Wong will also participate in the 5th Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Summit to reaffirm its role in strengthening regional trade. Malaysia's ASEAN chairmanship has been praised for bringing all five founding BRICS nations together at the summit, symbolizing a rare Global South alignment and highlighting ASEAN's role as a bridge between global blocs. The presence of BRICS leaders like those from Brazil and South Africa underscores ASEAN's growing importance as a platform where Global North and South powers engage. Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong will serve as Acting Prime Minister during Wong’s absence.