Malaysia should promote philosophy as Asean chair

By Pravin Periasamy

As Malaysia takes the helm of Asean, the Southeast Asian regional grouping, it stands at the intersection of tradition and global diplomacy.

With the theme of “inclusivity and sustainability,” Malaysia’s leadership can now project its soft power by showcasing its rich philosophical heritage to a global audience. The country can redefine how the world perceives Southeast Asia- not just as an economic hub, but as a philosophical and cultural powerhouse.

Soft power is the ability to influence others through culture, values and ideas. It has often been underutilised in Southeast Asia’s diplomatic strategies.

Malaysia’s leadership of Asean now provides a platform to change that. Its “Madani” framework emphasises sustainability, care and compassion, respect, innovation, prosperity and trust. These Madani values embody universal principles with a Malaysian perspective.

The philosophical underpinnings of these values should be projected outward as a model of ethical governance, harmonious living and progressive thinking.

Malaysia could carve a space for itself as a leader in intellectual diplomacy.

Malaysia’s philosophical frameworks include concepts such as budi (ethical wisdom) and harmoni (harmony). These should resonate not only within the region but also with global audiences seeking sustainable and inclusive approaches to governance and cooperation.

Malaysia’s blend of cultural traditions has resulted in a pluralistic and adaptive philosophical tradition. This diversity makes it well-suited to address the complexities of a multi-polar world.

The world faces huge ethical dilemmas, like reducing environmental degradation and regulating artificial intelligence. Asean’s philosophical heritage offers much-needed unique perspectives on such issues.

Malaysia could now position Asean as a global thought leader by exporting its unique intellectual traditions. It could host annual forums, bringing together scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders from Asean and beyond to explore Southeast Asian philosophical traditions. These events could not only promote the region’s intellectual heritage but also establish Malaysia as a hub for philosophical discourse.

Malaysia could also encourage cultural diplomacy through programmes that highlight Asean’s shared philosophical values. Art exhibitions, public lectures and collaborative projects could showcase regional wisdom in upholding sustainability, governance and human rights.

The Asean chairmanship in 2025 offers Malaysia a platform to showcase its intellectual capital, not only within the region but also on the global stage. Malaysia could also amplify the voices of its current intellectuals and thinkers, many of whom are exploring critical issues such as the ethics of AI and sustainable development.

Malaysia could use this platform to embed philosophical inquiry into Asean’s policymaking processes. It could promote critical thinking and ethical reasoning in regional education systems or introduce governance frameworks rooted in Southeast Asian traditions of justice and communal responsibility.

These efforts could demonstrate how intellectual capital can drive both practical solutions and visionary leadership. They could reinforce Malaysia’s position as a thought leader within Asean.

Ultimately, the chairmanship of Asean offers not just a ceremonial role for Malaysia but an opportunity to project the country’s intellectual and cultural strengths.

Pravin Periasamy is networking and partnership director of the Malaysian Philosophy Society.