On January 1, 2025, Malaysia assumed the chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for the fifth time since the organization's inception in 1967. The transition was symbolized on October 11, 2024, when Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim received the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel from Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone during the closing ceremony of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits in Vientiane.

Under the theme "Inclusivity and Sustainability," Malaysia has outlined an ambitious agenda for its chairmanship, focusing on artificial intelligence, renewable energy, tourism, and healthcare. The country plans to host over 300 key meetings and programs throughout the year, with Penang set to host 13 major meetings covering strategic cooperation in security, economy, investment, trade, education, and youth development.

A significant initiative during Malaysia's chairmanship is the inaugural ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Plus China summit, scheduled for May 2025. This high-level meeting aims to enhance cooperation between Southeast Asia, Gulf countries, and China across multiple sectors.

In December 2024, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim appointed former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra as his personal adviser for the ASEAN Chairmanship. Thaksin, a prominent figure in Thai politics, will serve in an informal capacity alongside advisors from ASEAN's member states. Despite being legally barred from office due to past convictions, Thaksin remains highly influential in Thai politics. After years in self-imposed exile, he returned to Thailand in 2023 and was briefly jailed before being transferred to a hospital and subsequently paroled. Thaksin continues to be active in the ruling Pheu Thai Party and has engaged in diplomatic efforts, including attempting to mediate in Myanmar's conflict.

In February 2025, Malaysia announced plans for ASEAN to hold a summit with the United States to discuss concerns over proposed U.S. tariffs. U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated intentions to impose tariffs of around 25% on automotive, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical imports. Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan highlighted that such tariffs would pose significant challenges, as electrical and electronics products constitute 60% of Malaysia's trade with the United States. The proposed summit aims to present ASEAN's collective stance to the U.S. government.

ASEAN foreign ministers convened in Langkawi, Malaysia, seeking solutions to Myanmar's ongoing civil war, which began following a 2021 military coup. Malaysia emphasized the need for an inclusive election in Myanmar, prioritizing peace over polls. The bloc's peace plans have faced challenges due to Myanmar's non-compliance and ASEAN's non-interference policy. Malaysia appointed Othman Hashim as ASEAN's special envoy to Myanmar to foster dialogue.

Tensions in the South China Sea remain a focal point, with ASEAN members urging China to respect international law following recent skirmishes. Chinese Premier Li Qiang attributed the tensions to "foreign forces" interfering in regional affairs. Malaysia is expected to pursue quiet diplomacy due to its limited capacity to confront China directly.

Malaysia's chairmanship coincides with the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN Community's formal establishment and the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, outlining the region's shared future for the next two decades. This milestone presents an opportunity for Malaysia to steer ASEAN towards deeper integration and resilience in the face of global challenges.

Malaysia's chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 is marked by a proactive agenda aimed at fostering inclusivity, sustainability, and regional cooperation. Through strategic initiatives and diplomatic engagements, Malaysia seeks to strengthen ASEAN's role in addressing both internal challenges and external pressures, shaping the region's trajectory in the years to come.