Phar Kim Beng

Dr. Phar Kim Beng is a leading scholar in ASEAN studies and international relations, specializing in Southeast Asian security, regionalism, and diplomacy. He teaches “ASEAN Regionalism” at the Asia Europe Institute, University of Malaya, where he is also Senior Research Fellow

Phar Kim Beng

Jul 11 2025

Asean must catch up in the global race for regional economic integration

Illuminem Voices

Ethical Governance · Social Responsibility

As Malaysia prepares to host the Asean-GCC-China Summit, Asean stands at a crossroads in the global race for regional integration. Despite bold ambitions, its intra-regional trade lags behind other blocs, exposing structural weaknesses that must be urgently addressed if the region hopes to enhance economic resilience and strategic relevance

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