(ECNS) -- The 44th and 45th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and related summits concluded in Vientiane last Friday, highlighting a more connected and resilient region to promote global peace and development. In addition, Laos handed over the ASEAN chairmanship for 2025 to Malaysia. In this context, China News Network exclusively talked with Dato' Ong Chong Yi, Executive Director of BRI Caucus for Asia Pacific (BRICAP).

During the interview, Dato' Ong Chong Yi mentioned that ASEAN faces significant disparities in economic and social development among its member states. Therefore, ASEAN aims to create a consumer market with higher purchasing power, cultivate a regional talent pool equipped with future-proof skills, and develop a regional base capable of exporting high-value-added products. To overcome regional challenges, Dato' Ong said, ASEAN must ensure the development of a robust, high-value supply chain, which requires skilled talent, efficient logistics, and seamless connectivity, which can be fulfilled through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Dato' Ong also pointed out that in addition to the establishment of physical infrastructure such as roads, ports, and transportation systems, the advancement of digital infrastructure also matters. Through the explanation of projects in Malaysia such as the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park, Kuantan Port expansion and the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) that aim to boost connectivity and economic growth, Dato' Ong noted that these partnerships also attract foreign direct investment, encourage technology transfer, and improve market access.

In addition, high-speed digital connectivity is essential for fostering cross-border e-commerce, enabling ASEAN products to reach global markets. Strengthening both physical and digital connectivity will empower ASEAN to enhance its competitiveness, integrate more deeply into global supply chains, and build long-term resilience in an increasingly complex international and regional landscape. In this regard, Dato' Ong highlighted China's talent training system, noting that China trains around 80,000 PhDs annually, with over half specializing in STEM fields. "This creates an opportunity for ASEAN to collaborate on digital transformation projects such as 5G, automation, AI etc.," Dato' Ong said.

Dato' Ong also noted that ASEAN nations welcome the BRI, because it enhances connectivity and economic cooperation across regions. Unlike traditional free trade agreements, the BRI prioritizes infrastructure projects to meet the long-term needs of both investors and recipient countries, fostering sustainable growth. Successful projects like China's high-speed rail network and port upgrades have demonstrated how enhanced connectivity can drive economic prosperity, including the China-Laos Railway that demonstrates positive impacts on tourism and opens avenues for more people-to-people connections through cultural exchanges and talent development initiatives.

Besides, the BRI has the potential to help ASEAN meet its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), said Dato' Ong. By aligning BRI investments with ASEAN's SDG agenda, especially in areas like green infrastructure, digital transformation, and climate resilience, ASEAN can achieve both economic and environmental sustainability.

Dato' Ong concluded that all these would not only bolster regional trade and investment but also support ASEAN's vision for a digitally integrated and sustainable future, reinforcing long-term development goals.