by SHAUQI WAHAB
THE inaugural ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-China Economic Forum has called for an urgent translating of political goodwill into tangible results, particularly in trade, investment, digital innovation and energy transition.
In his opening remarks on May 27, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz welcomed delegates from across Asia and the Gulf, describing the forum as an impactful milestone in regional economic diplomacy.
Malaysia hosted the landmark event alongside the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit. The event was also joined by an audience of policymakers, global investors and Fortune 500 CEOs.
Framed under Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN chairmanship theme of inclusivity and sustainability, the forum reflected a pivotal moment in strengthening economic ties between the three major blocs.
Tengku Zafrul highlighted the collective economic weight of ASEAN, the GCC and China, whose combined GDP of US$24 trillion (RM104.88 trillion) accounts for approximately 23% of global GDP and over one-third of the world’s population.
“This occasion marks a historic confluence of three dynamic economies, all committed to advancing peace, prosperity and sustainable growth,” he said.
Tengku Zafrul reaffirmed Malaysia’s dedication to building a more inclusive and resilient economic future, expressing hope that the forum would serve as a springboard for impactful partnerships.
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