Foreign Ministers from ASEAN member states reconvened on July 9, 2025 at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Retreat (AMM Retreat) in Kuala Lumpur to discuss pressing regional issues, with a strong emphasis on unity, the protracted Myanmar crisis, and emerging security threats in Southeast Asia.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono opened his remarks by underscoring the need to preserve ASEAN unity amid increasingly complex regional dynamics. “ASEAN must reaffirm its role as the anchor of regional order. Unity and ASEAN centrality are non-negotiable,” he said as quoted in a statement on Thursday, July 10, 2025.

As the ongoing crisis in Myanmar remains a central topic of discussion, Sugiono reiterated that the Five-Point Consensus continues to serve as the collective framework for ASEAN's efforts to support a peaceful resolution. “An immediate cessation of violence and the delivery of humanitarian assistance must take place,” he said.

He also raised concern over the growing threat of transnational crimes in the region, particularly the rise in online scams, which are increasingly linked to human trafficking and narcotics trade.

The meeting also welcomed progress in negotiations on the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea, in line with the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' 2023 mandate to expedite a meaningful and effective COC. “ASEAN must remain committed to concluding a substantive and effective COC to help maintain maritime stability in the South China Sea,” Sugiono said.

Amid global geopolitical uncertainty and escalating conflicts, he highlighted the importance of ASEAN’s readiness to protect its citizens in crisis zones. He called for the implementation of agreed cooperation frameworks, particularly the Guidelines for the Provision of Emergency Assistance by ASEAN Missions in Third Countries to Nationals of ASEAN Member Countries in Crisis Situations.

ASEAN, he concluded, bears a collective responsibility to ensure the region remains resilient, cohesive, and proactive in shaping a peaceful and stable regional architecture.