PRIME Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who is scheduled to attend the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) Economic Leaders’ Week in San Francisco, will emphasise the importance of regional cooperation and building economic resilience in the region amid post-pandemic and geopolitical challenges.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, will lead the Malaysian delegation to the 30th Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting in San Francisco, California, from tomorrow till Friday.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, who is accompanying the prime minister on this visit, said Malaysia is focusing on Apec as the country’s position is “we are supportive of Apec to be more open and transparent.”

“Cooperation is needed to boost the economy, especially for Malaysia (where the focus will be) the digital economy, green economy as well as halal economy.

“It is important to bring major economies to the table for stability, which is important for global growth,” Tengku Zafrul told the Malaysian media in San Francisco today ahead of Anwar’s arrival tomorrow.

Anwar will be accompanied by his wife Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Foreign Minister Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil as well as other senior government officials.

Tengku Zafrul said for Malaysia, the hope is that Apec member economies would come together on how to strengthen regional cooperation and economic integration. 

This is towards becoming “a more open, dynamic and resilient economy and a more peaceful Asia Pacific community by 2040, which is in line with the Apec Putrajaya Vision 2040,” he added. – Bernama, November 13, 2023.