Hamzah, Luthfy (2026) Turkiye enters ASEAN's inner circle, while Malaysia takes lead. Daily Sabah, 2026 (1). pp. 1-4. ISSN 2148-3655
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Abstract
This article examines Türkiye’s elevation from an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner to a full ASEAN Dialogue Partner and evaluates Malaysia’s appointment as the ASEAN Country Coordinator for ASEAN–Türkiye Dialogue Relations. It argues that these concurrent developments represent a significant institutional milestone in ASEAN’s external relations and reflect the growing strategic convergence between ASEAN Vision 2045 and Türkiye’s Asia Anew Initiative. The article analyses how Türkiye’s enhanced status expands opportunities for cooperation across political and security affairs, economic integration, defence collaboration, cybersecurity, maritime security, humanitarian assistance, education, and technological innovation. It further assesses Malaysia’s diplomatic responsibilities in ensuring that this partnership remains inclusive, practical, and beneficial to all ASEAN member states while reinforcing ASEAN centrality amid intensifying geopolitical competition in the Indo-Pacific. The discussion concludes that Malaysia’s coordinating role extends beyond bilateral diplomacy, positioning Kuala Lumpur as an important bridge between Southeast Asia and the broader Islamic world while strengthening ASEAN’s institutional continuity after its 2025 Chairmanship. Ultimately, the article contends that the ASEAN–Türkiye partnership has the potential to evolve into one of the region’s most consequential strategic relationships if supported by sustained political commitment, institutional coordination, and long-term economic engagement.
| Item Type: | Article (Electronic Media) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Türkiye; ASEAN; Malaysia; ASEAN Dialogue Partner; ASEAN–Türkiye Relations |
| Subjects: | J Political Science > JZ International relations |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC) Office of the Rector |
| Depositing User: | Mr Muhammad Syameer Luthfy Bin Hamzah |
| Date Deposited: | 01 Aug 2026 11:46 |
| Last Update: | 01 Aug 2026 11:46 |
| Queue Number: | 2026-07-Q4408 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130389 |
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