ASIATODAY.ID, KUALA LUMPUR – President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, has called for strengthened cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), with a focus on economic integration and the protection of migrant workers. His statement was delivered at the 2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) in Malaysia, May 27, 2025.
In his address to ASEAN and GCC leaders, President Prabowo emphasized the need to seize the current momentum to build a brighter, mutually beneficial future for both regions.
“Now is the right time to bring our two regions closer together and to work jointly for the benefit of our people. Let us strive to build a promising future by focusing on these three key areas,” President Prabowo stated.
President Prabowo highlighted the significant economic potential between ASEAN and GCC that remains underutilized. In 2023, the total trade value between the two regions reached only USD 120 billion. In response, he welcomed the plan to conduct a joint feasibility study for establishing an ASEAN-GCC Free Trade Area.
“This shows we have a major opportunity to deepen our economic and trade cooperation,” Prabowo explained.
To boost private sector engagement, President Prabowo proposed the creation of an ASEAN-GCC business network that would facilitate regular exchanges and partnerships. He also underlined the natural synergy between ASEAN and GCC in the halal industry, calling for harmonized halal standards and mutual recognition of halal certification.
“We must collaborate to harmonize halal standards, mutually recognize our halal certifications, and increase joint investments to enhance halal industry capacity,” he added.
Prioritizing Migrant Worker Protection
Beyond economic issues, President Prabowo also drew attention to the importance of safeguarding ASEAN migrant workers employed in GCC countries. He advocated for enhanced regional cooperation to ensure decent work standards, including fair wages, safe and healthy working conditions, and improved access to skills training.
“We must ensure that our workers receive maximum protection and have opportunities to grow and succeed,” he said.
Through this high-level summit, President Prabowo reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to serving as a strategic bridge between ASEAN and the GCC. His initiatives to strengthen economic ties, create cross-regional business platforms, and prioritize the welfare of migrant workers reflect Indonesia’s vision of a more inclusive, just, and sustainable regional future. (AT Network)
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