KUALA LUMPUR, 9 January - Malaysia must take a globalist approach to policy making to maintain its relevance on the world stage.

Economy minister, Rafizi Ramli, said the world is changing at a rapid pace, and this situation requires more cautious thinking and action from all parties.

"In particular, countries of Southeast Asia will play a vital role as the region’s profile, approach, and vision go against the global tide that is currently heading in the opposite direction," he said at the Malaysia Economic Forum (FEM) 2025.

"Malaysia and Southeast Asia must recognize the uniqueness we possess to determine our direction," he added.

He further stressed that Southeast Asia possesses distinct demographic advantages and strong economic growth, which in turn positions the region as a key consumer market.

Over the next five years, Southeast Asia's middle class is expected to expand, resulting in a regional population surpassing that of the United States and the European Union combined.

In his speech, he also said the 13th Malaysia Plan will be launched this year as a strategic step to ensure Malaysia remains competitive on the global stage.