MALAYSIAN CHAIRMANSHIP OF ASEAN 2025: THE DOUGHNUT OR THE HOLE?

Published on 19 Dec 2025

In “Malaysian Chairmanship of ASEAN 2025: The Doughnut or the Hole?”, Janice Nga offers a reflective and incisive assessment of Malaysia’s fifth turn as ASEAN Chair, weighing headline achievements against the criticisms that surrounded the year. She highlights landmark outcomes including the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord between Thailand and Cambodia, Timor-Leste’s long-awaited admission as ASEAN’s 11th member, expanded trade engagements with major powers, and the delivery of over 80 outcome documents under the theme of inclusivity and sustainability. Addressing controversies such as the visit of US President Donald Trump, Nga argues that critics focused on symbolic distractions rather than substantive gains, urging readers to consider whether they choose to see the “hole” or the “doughnut” — and to recognise the depth, leadership, and lasting regional impact of Malaysia’s 2025 Chairmanship.