15th Asian Conference of the Valdai Discussion Club: Malaysia, Russia, and ASEAN: Navigating Emerging Multipolarity

Bait Al Amanah, in partnership with the Valdai Discussion Club, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation Japan, and the Institute of Strategic Analysis and Policy Research (INSAP), recently hosted the 15th Asian Conference of the Valdai Discussion Club. Titled “Malaysia, Russia, and ASEAN: Navigating Emerging Multipolarity,” the event was held on the 9th and 10th of December 2024 at the Royale Chulan Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.

A highlight of the conference was the keynote addresses by H.E. Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan, Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, and H.E. Andrey Rudenko, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation. H.E. Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan emphasized ASEAN’s role as a cornerstone of regional stability and outlined Malaysia’s vision for an inclusive and sustainable ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. H.E. Andrey Rudenko shared Russia’s vision for the Asia-Pacific, advocating for strategic partnerships, regional resilience, and a cooperative approach to avoid militarization and divisive bloc politics.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the notable speakers and experts from Malaysia, Russia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Pakistan who shared their valuable insights and expertise throughout the sessions. The conference was also further enriched by the presence of distinguished representatives from various Malaysian government ministries and agencies.

Discussions at the 15th Asian Conference focused on the transition towards a polycentric world order, with an emphasis on regional cooperation. As the Asia-Pacific continues to play a pivotal role in global development, participants explored how the region can address contemporary challenges and create initiatives that promote unity, transcending geopolitical divides.

We hope that the conference has further strengthened the ties between Malaysia, Russia, and ASEAN, paving the way for continued dialogue and collaboration on shared regional and global interests. It is our wish that the insights gained here will contribute to a more resilient and cooperative multipolar world.