KUALA LUMPUR – The Community Communications Department (JKom) and the Information Department (JaPen) have been urged to step up their efforts to improve public awareness and understanding of Malaysia’s role as ASEAN Chair in 2025, particularly in rural areas.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil emphasised that ongoing outreach is crucial for helping Malaysians recognise the advantages of Malaysia holding the ASEAN Chairmanship, especially regarding economic benefits.
“I call on JKom and JaPen to help more Malaysians grasp what it means to be the host (of ASEAN). For those in villages or towns with hotels, for instance, I’m sure they’ll see the influx of international delegates, which is part of the economic benefits,” he said it at the ministry’s 2024 Excellent Service Awards Ceremony (Peninsular Zone) at the Seri Angkasa Auditorium, Angkasapuri Media City, here today,
Fahmi elaborated that in addition to the ASEAN Summit scheduled for May 26-27, Malaysia will also be hosting the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and the ASEAN-GCC-China Economic Summit. These events are important opportunities for tackling both regional and global issues.
“This matters for Malaysians, especially in light of recent developments like the United States’ announcement of its tariff rates on various countries, including Malaysia and our ASEAN partners. It’s a clear signal that we need to act proactively to support ASEAN member states,” he said.
At the same time, Fahmi highlighted Malaysia’s role in digital governance, emphasising the country’s distinctive achievement in officially licensing the Telegram app.
“Some countries were surprised by how we managed to engage with Telegram’s founders. When it comes to big tech, many believe they’re bigger than nations. But our stance is simple; you can be big tech, but our laws are bigger,” he added. – May 15, 2025