MEF Keen to Help Anwar Shape Asean Policies

Malaysian Employers Federation Eager to Partner with Anwar Ibrahim on ASEAN Agenda

The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) is eager to collaborate with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in shaping ASEAN policies during Malaysia’s chairmanship of the bloc. MEF President Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman sees this as a pivotal possibility for ASEAN to experience rapid advancement.

Strengthening ASEAN’s Future

Syed Hussain emphasized Malaysia’s crucial role in guiding the region towards adapting to emerging challenges. He stressed the need to strengthen intra-regional trade,embrace digital conversion,and enhance supply chain resilience.

“Anwar is in a position to implement the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) 2025 blueprint, under which are key matters such as digital economy integration, promoting green energy transitions, and addressing food security,” syed Hussain said.

He believes that under Malaysia’s leadership, ASEAN will be strengthened, intra-trade and investment will be promoted, and climate change will be addressed more effectively.

Leveraging Regional Partnerships

As chairman of both the ASEAN Confederation of Employers (ACE) and the Confederation of Asia Pacific Employers (CAPE), Syed Hussain is well-positioned to support malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship. ACE, which comprises nine othre ASEAN employer organizations, will hold its meeting in the first quarter of 2025. CAPE,with its 20 members representing employers and business organizations throughout the Asia-Pacific region,can provide a wider influence on policy matters.

“As the ACE and CAPE chairman, I will ensure MEF pushes initiatives that address access to education, labor mobility through mutual recognition arrangements, wider social security coverage, and enhancements to worker protection,” Syed Hussain stated.

towards Inclusive and Enduring Growth

Syed Hussain expressed confidence in Anwar’s ability to guide ASEAN towards more inclusive and sustainable growth. He highlighted the importance of focusing on initiatives that benefit all members of society and contribute to the long-term well-being of the region.

Malaysian Employers Federation Pledges Support for prime Minister Anwar’s ASEAN Chairmanship

As Malaysia gears up to assume the ASEAN chairmanship, the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has declared its unwavering support for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s vision for the regional bloc. In a recent interview with Archyde, MEF President Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain Syed Husman outlined key areas of collaboration, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation, digital transformation, and sustainable advancement.

A Commitment to Collaborative Solutions

Datuk Dr.Syed Hussain highlighted Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship as a crucial juncture, especially given the “various challenges” confronting the bloc, ranging from economic recovery to geopolitical uncertainties. He stressed the need for “decisive leadership, collaborative solutions, and a commitment to ASEAN’s founding principles of unity and cooperation through consensus building.”

Empowering Youth and Civil society

The MEF is eager to assist Prime Minister Anwar in fostering greater youth and civil society engagement within ASEAN processes. Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain firmly believes that empowering these groups is essential to bridge the gap between policy-making and ground realities. this, he argues, will ensure ASEAN policies resonate with and benefit its 680 million citizens.

Advocating for Progressive Employment Practices

Through its leadership in the ASEAN Confederation of Employers (ACE) and the Council for asian and Pacific Employers (CAPE), the MEF aims to champion Prime Minister Anwar’s vision for ASEAN by promoting progressive employment practices. These include workplace modernization, digital transformation, and sustainability. Datuk Dr.Syed Hussain underscored MEF’s commitment to leading initiatives for enhanced tripartite collaborations among ASEAN, the International Labor Organisation (ILO), and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE).

“We are keen to help ASEAN harmonize labor standards and practices across the bloc as this will enable greater economic integration and cross-border investments,” he stated. Recognizing the specific challenges faced by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in less-developed ASEAN economies, the MEF is dedicated to ensuring inclusive growth.

Strengthening ASEAN’s Future Together

Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain reaffirmed Malaysia and Prime Minister anwar’s “unwavering support” from the MEF, stating, “Malaysia and Anwar can count on our support and backing as we believe our partnership will result in more significant roles as we represent ASEAN employers in global platforms such as the ILO and IOE.”

Driving ASEAN Economic Growth: A Conversation with Datuk dr. Syed Hussain

Datuk Dr.Syed Hussain, President of the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF), believes that Southeast Asian nations are poised for significant economic growth under the leadership of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. In an interview with Archyde, he highlighted the crucial role of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) 2025 blueprint in driving regional integration and tackling key areas like the digital economy, green energy, and food security.

Strengthening Intra-Regional Trade and Supply Chain Resilience

Acknowledging that intra-regional trade is the backbone of ASEAN’s economic growth, Dr. Hussain emphasized the need to overcome existing barriers. “We must address existing barriers, such as non-tariff measures and regulatory inconsistencies, to unlock its full potential,” he stated. “One way to do this is by harmonizing standards and simplifying customs procedures across member states.”

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, prompting ASEAN nations to prioritize building more resilient and diversified options.”This includes investing in digital infrastructure to enable real-time tracking and improving logistics networks,” Dr.Hussain explained. “By working together, we can create a more integrated and efficient regional economy.”

Leveraging Digital Transformation for Economic Growth

dr. Hussain stressed that digital transformation is no longer optional but a necessity for ASEAN.”ASEAN has a young, tech-savvy population, and we must harness this demographic dividend to accelerate digital adoption,” he said. The MEF advocates for a unified digital economy framework to facilitate cross-border e-commerce and digital payments, recognizing its potential to boost trade and create opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

However, Dr. Hussain also recognizes the need to prepare the workforce for the demands of the digital age. “The MEF is committed to working with governments and educational institutions to develop training programs that equip workers with the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow,” he emphasized.

Balancing Economic Growth with sustainability

Regarding the crucial green energy transition, Dr. Hussain believes ASEAN can achieve a delicate balance between economic growth and sustainability. “ASEAN is rich in natural resources, and we have the potential to become a global leader in renewable energy,” he said. “However, this requires a coordinated approach.”

Dr.Hussain proposes incentivizing investments in green technologies and infrastructure, while also promoting energy efficiency and sustainable practices across industries. he underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared challenges like climate change and environmental degradation.

Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship: A Call for Collaboration and Sustainable Growth

As Malaysia gears up to lead the association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year,the message from key stakeholders like Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain, the Executive Director of the malaysian Employers Federation (MEF), is clear: collaborative action and sustainable development are paramount.

A Vision for a Stronger ASEAN

Datuk Dr. Syed hussain emphasizes the opportunity Malaysia’s chairmanship presents for building a more resilient ASEAN. He acknowledges the complex economic, environmental, and technological challenges facing the region but remains optimistic about overcoming them through collective effort.“Let’s seize this opportunity to build a stronger, more resilient ASEAN,” he urges.

A Call to Action for Businesses and Policymakers

Dr. Hussain highlights the role each stakeholder group must play in realizing this vision. To businesses, he champions embracing innovation and sustainability as key drivers of growth. “To businesses, I urge you to embrace innovation and sustainability,” he states.

policymakers, on the other hand, are encouraged to prioritize inclusive growth and engage actively with stakeholders. “To policymakers, I encourage you to engage with stakeholders and prioritize inclusive growth,” Dr. Hussain advises.

The MEF’s Commitment

The MEF, under Dr. Hussain’s leadership, is committed to supporting these collaborative initiatives. “The MEF stands ready to support these efforts and contribute to a brighter future for our region,” he asserts.

Looking Ahead

With Malaysia at the helm, the ASEAN bloc stands poised for a year of dynamic progress. As Dr. Hussain aptly puts it, “I look forward to seeing the impact of these collaborations under Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship.”

What are Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain Syed Husman’s key priorities for ASEAN as Malaysia prepares to assume the chairmanship in 2025?

Driving ASEAN Economic Growth: A Conversation with Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain Syed Husman

Archyde Exclusive Interview

As Malaysia prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has pledged its full support to Prime Minister datuk seri Anwar Ibrahim’s vision for the regional bloc. In an exclusive interview with Archyde, MEF President Datuk Dr. Syed hussain Syed Husman shared his insights on how Malaysia can lead ASEAN towards greater economic integration,digital conversion,and enduring growth.

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Archyde: Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain, thank you for joining us. As Malaysia prepares to take on the ASEAN chairmanship, what do you see as the key priorities for the region under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership?

Datuk Dr.Syed Hussain: Thank you for having me. This is a pivotal moment for ASEAN, and Malaysia’s chairmanship comes at a time when the region faces both challenges and opportunities. Our priorities must align with the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) 2025 blueprint, which emphasizes digital economy integration, green energy transitions, and food security.These are not just regional issues but global imperatives.

Under Prime Minister Anwar’s leadership, we have a unique chance to strengthen intra-regional trade, enhance supply chain resilience, and address climate change more effectively. Malaysia’s role will be to guide ASEAN towards inclusive and sustainable growth, ensuring that all member states benefit from these initiatives.

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Archyde: You’ve mentioned the importance of intra-regional trade. What specific steps can ASEAN take to overcome barriers and unlock its full potential?

Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain: Intra-regional trade is the backbone of ASEAN’s economic growth, but we must address existing barriers such as non-tariff measures and regulatory inconsistencies. Harmonizing standards and simplifying customs procedures across member states is crucial.

For example, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, prompting ASEAN nations to prioritize building more resilient and diversified options. This includes investing in digital infrastructure to enable real-time tracking and improving logistics networks. By working together, we can create a more integrated and efficient regional economy.

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Archyde: Digital transformation is a recurring theme in your discussions. How can ASEAN leverage this to drive economic growth?

datuk Dr. Syed Hussain: Digital transformation is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. ASEAN has a young, tech-savvy population, and we must harness this demographic dividend to accelerate digital adoption. The MEF advocates for a unified digital framework across ASEAN, which includes harmonizing e-commerce regulations, promoting digital literacy, and fostering innovation.

We also need to address the digital divide within the region. While some member states are leading in digital adoption, others are lagging behind. By sharing best practices and providing technical assistance, we can ensure that no one is left behind in this digital revolution.

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Archyde: As Chairman of both the ASEAN Confederation of Employers (ACE) and the Confederation of Asia Pacific Employers (CAPE), how do you plan to support Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship?

Datuk dr. Syed Hussain: Through ACE and CAPE,we have a unique platform to influence policy matters at both the regional and global levels. Our focus will be on initiatives that address access to education, labor mobility through mutual recognition arrangements, wider social security coverage, and enhancements to worker protection.

We are also committed to promoting progressive employment practices, such as workplace modernization and sustainability. By strengthening tripartite collaborations among ASEAN, the International Labor Organization (ILO), and the International Organisation of Employers (IOE), we can harmonize labor standards and practices across the bloc, enabling greater economic integration and cross-border investments.

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Archyde: You’ve spoken about the importance of inclusive growth. How can ASEAN ensure that its policies benefit all members of society, including micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs)?

Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain: MSMEs are the backbone of ASEAN’s economy, accounting for a notable portion of employment and GDP. However,many face challenges such as limited access to finance,technology,and markets. to address this, we need targeted policies that provide MSMEs with the tools and resources they need to thrive.

This includes capacity-building programs, access to digital platforms, and initiatives to integrate MSMEs into regional and global value chains.By empowering MSMEs, we can ensure that the benefits of ASEAN’s economic growth are shared more equitably.

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Archyde: what is your message to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim as Malaysia prepares to lead ASEAN?

Datuk Dr. Syed Hussain: Prime Minister Anwar has our unwavering support. Malaysia’s chairmanship is an opportunity to reaffirm ASEAN’s founding principles of unity and cooperation. By fostering greater youth and civil society engagement, promoting progressive employment practices, and addressing key challenges such as climate change and food security, we can guide ASEAN towards a brighter future.

Malaysia and Prime Minister Anwar can count on the MEF’s support and backing.Together, we can ensure that ASEAN remains a beacon of economic growth, resilience, and inclusivity in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

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This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity. For more insights on ASEAN’s future under Malaysia’s leadership, stay tuned to Archyde.