President Prabowo Urges Strengthened ASEAN-GCC Economic Cooperation and Migrant Worker Protection

President Prabowo Subianto participating in the second ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Malaysia, on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. (Photo by: BPMI of the Presidential Secretariat)

President Prabowo Subianto underscored three critical aspects to realize a promising future for the region during his address at the second ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), Malaysia, on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

“This is the right time to strengthen ties between our regions and to work together for the benefit of our people. Let us strive earnestly to build a promising future by concentrating on these three priorities,” President Prabowo conveyed to the ASEAN and GCC leaders.

President Prabowo highlighted the untapped potential between ASEAN and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), particularly in trade. He welcomed the plan to conduct a joint feasibility study on establishing an ASEAN-GCC Free Trade Area, emphasizing that such an initiative could pave the way for deeper economic integration and mutual prosperity.

“In 2023, our trade value reached only USD 120 billion. This indicates a significant opportunity to enhance cooperation between our two regions,” President Prabowo remarked.

President Prabowo Subianto emphasized the importance of collaboration between ASEAN and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to harmonize halal standards, establish mutual recognition mechanisms for halal certifications, and jointly invest in capacity building. Regarding the halal industry, President Prabowo noted that ASEAN and GCC are natural partners in this sector.

“We must collaborate to harmonize halal standards. We need mechanisms for mutual recognition of our halal certifications. And we must enhance joint investments to strengthen capacity development,” He said.

In addition to economic cooperation, President Prabowo Subianto emphasized the importance of safeguarding ASEAN migrant workers employed in Gulf countries. The Head of State views the need to strengthen regional cooperation to ensure the principles of decent work.

“Ensuring fair wages, safe and healthy working conditions, and increasing the number of skilled workers,” said the President. (BPMI SETPRES) (AP/LW)