MAY 17 — When Malaysia assumes the Asean Chair in 2025, it does so with a unique historical and civilisational compass — one that points not only to the Pacific and Indian Oceans but also to the heart of civilisational dialogues between Islam and Confucianism.

The upcoming Asean-GCC-China Summit, to be held on May 26–27 in Kuala Lumpur, is not just a diplomatic convergence — it is a strategic opportunity to reimagine integration between East and West Asia.

Indeed, rarely in modern diplomacy does a summit represent such a layered confluence of history, culture, religion, and trade.

With the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) representing the Arab-Islamic world and Asean reflecting the dynamic economies of Southeast Asia, and with China as the enduring Confucian power, this trilateral engagement provides fertile ground for both strategic connectivity and philosophical synthesis.

Malaysia, grounded in both the Malay-Muslim worldview and the Confucian tradition through its long-standing ties with China, is the most natural bridge.

Malaysia’s civilisational vantage point

Malaysia is more than just a host — it is the inheritor of two civilisational streams. As a Muslim-majority nation that has practiced open engagement with China for centuries, it is uniquely placed to mediate, synthesise, and propose a deeper regionalism based not solely on economics, but also shared values of order, harmony, and justice.

In the Malay world, Islam was never just a faith — it was a worldview (al-ru’yah al-islamiyyah) based on justice, moderation, and community.

And similarly, the Confucian tradition, as articulated by thinkers like Zhu Xi, enshrined hierarchy not as oppression but as a moral order grounded in virtue.

Together, these civilisational legacies offer the Asean-GCC-China trilateral format a deeper philosophical anchor than the transactional frameworks that plague many modern multilateral arrangements.

Asean and GCC: Strategic convergence, not just convenience

The Gulf states are looking East — and not just to hedge against Western uncertainties. As hydrocarbon economies seek diversification under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the UAE’s Future Foresight Initiative, and Qatar’s diplomacy of soft power, Asean presents a compelling destination.

With a combined GDP of over US$3.6 trillion (RM15.4 trillion) and a population nearing 700 million, Asean is not just a market — it is a model of developmental pragmatism.

Yet it is China that serves as the third axis in this emerging tri-polar framework. Its Belt and Road Initiative, the Digital Silk Road, and vast infrastructure financing across both Asean and GCC territories position Beijing as the pivotal economic enabler.

However, China’s engagement has often raised concerns about asymmetry. This is where Asean, under Malaysian chairmanship, can mediate—not merely to dilute China’s influence, but to embed it within a rules-based, civilisationally conscious framework.

Zhu Xi and Ibn Khaldun: A dialogue of orders

The strategic logic of this summit is not just geopolitical; it is philosophical. Zhu Xi, the great neo-Confucian scholar of the Song dynasty, emphasised “li”—the principle of universal order.

His writings on harmony, filial piety, and moral governance can find deep resonance in the Islamic concept of ‘adl (justice) and maslahah (public interest), emphasised by Ibn Khaldun.

Ibn Khaldun’s Muqaddimah teaches that civilisations rise and fall based on asabiyyah—social cohesion. This cohesion, he argued, must be rooted in justice and collective purpose, not simply material wealth.

Asean and GCC nations, increasingly buffeted by global disorder, must re-anchor their cooperation in this kind of civilisational cohesion. Trade and infrastructure are important, but enduring integration must emerge from shared moral visions.

From Zhu Xi’s “Great Unity” to Ibn Khaldun’s cycles of civilisation, both traditions caution against imperial overreach, moral decay, and the loss of community values.

As such, Asean and the GCC, guided by the Confucian respect for hierarchy and the Islamic ethos of ethical governance, must design integration that emphasises human dignity over profit, regional sovereignty over coercive alliances, and dialogue over domination.

A new infrastructure of conscience

At a practical level, the Asean-GCC-China Summit should consider the following innovations:

1. Civilisational Dialogue Mechanism: Establish a permanent Asean-GCC Cultural and Civilisational Dialogue Forum, housed in Kuala Lumpur or Doha, with rotating leadership and anchored in comparative philosophy, interfaith dialogue, and values education.

2. Islamic-Confucian Sustainability Framework: Inspired by the Confucian ideal of harmony with nature and Islam’s stewardship concept (khalifah), propose an environmental cooperation platform focused on water, desertification, carbon markets, and halal green industries.

3. Halal-Confucian Trade Corridor: Promote a joint economic zone where halal standards, Confucian business ethics (such as sincerity and accountability), and Islamic finance norms shape trade protocols. This could attract global Muslim and Confucian heritage markets, from Africa to Northeast Asia. After all l, Indonesia and Malaysia have mutually agreed to acknowledge each other’s Halal products.

4. Digital Ethics Compact: Asean, GCC, and China can co-develop an AI and digital technology governance framework that balances innovation with moral safeguards. Drawing from Islamic and Confucian epistemologies, such a framework would emphasise data responsibility, public interest, and algorithmic transparency.

Beyond realism: A value-based regionalism

Too often, summits are reduced to press statements and photo opportunities. Yet regional orders that endure—from the Treaty of Westphalia to the Bandung Conference—were born not of necessity alone, but of vision. Malaysia’s leadership this year must resurrect that spirit.

Thus, the Asean-GCC-China Summit is a chance to move beyond mere hedging strategies between the US and China.

It is a moment to craft a third way—one rooted in the value pluralism of Asia, not its division. Islam and Confucianism, long treated as cultural artifacts, must now inform how we build institutional bridges, not just symbolic ones.

Malaysia, with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s deep commitment to civilisational dialogue, can lead this synthesis.

As Chair of Asean, it can push beyond trade facilitation toward trade with ethical depth. As a Muslim democracy with historical ties to both Mecca and Beijing, it can propose structures of cooperation that reflect moral clarity in a fragmented world.

Conclusion: A summit of destiny

As wars rage in Gaza and Ukraine, and as sanctions, tariffs, and technology decoupling dominate headlines, Asia’s answer must not merely be alignment — but enlightenment.

The Asean-GCC-China Summit must serve as the Bandung 2.0 — not in rhetoric, but in building an inclusive framework grounded in civilisational ethics.

Let this be the summit where the Gulf and East Asia rediscover one another — not through oil and semiconductors alone, but through the quiet wisdom of Zhu Xi and Ibn Khaldun.

Their ancient insights offer not nostalgia, but navigational beacons. If Asean and the GCC, with China’s engagement, can embody those values, then the 21st century may finally witness a regionalism of conscience — and not just convenience.

Phar Kim Beng, PhD, is Professor of Asean Studies at the International Islamic University Malaysia. He is a Harvard and Cambridge Commonwealth Fellow. He writes frequently on civilisational diplomacy, comparative regionalism, and the philosophical foundations of Asia’s international order.

* Phar Kim Beng, PhD, is a Professor of Asean Studies at the International Islamic University Malaysia and a Visiting Faculty member at the Asia-Europe Institute, University of Malaya.

** This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail.

date:2025-05-17 02:00:00

ASEAN-GCC-china Summit: Redefining Regional Integration with Islam and Confucianism

Table of Contents

ASEAN-GCC-china Summit: Redefining Regional Integration with Islam and Confucianism

The ASEAN-GCC-China Summit represents more than just another gathering of global leaders. It signifies a potent alignment of economic interests, cultural values, and geopolitical ambitions.At its core lies a interesting intersection between Islamic ethics and Confucian principles – two influential systems of thought that are increasingly shaping the dynamics of regional and global affairs. This convergence is particularly important for understanding the potential for deepened economic ties, enhanced security cooperation, and a re-evaluation of the global power balance.

The Significance of the ASEAN-GCC-China Triangle

To grasp the summit’s true importance, it’s essential to understand the individual strengths each region brings to the table:

ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian nations): A vibrant economic hub with a combined GDP of over $3 trillion, representing a diverse and dynamic market of over 650 million people. ASEAN’s strategic location on major trade routes makes it a crucial link in global supply chains.
GCC (gulf Cooperation Council): Possessing vast oil and gas reserves, the GCC nations wield significant financial power and are actively diversifying their economies thru investments in renewable energy, technology, and infrastructure. Their sovereign wealth funds are key players in the global investment landscape.
China: The world’s second-largest economy and a global manufacturing powerhouse, China offers unmatched infrastructure development capabilities, technological innovation, and a massive consumer market. Its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) further underscores its commitment to regional connectivity.

The synergy created by bringing these three entities together is immense. ASEAN needs investment and infrastructure development,the GCC seeks economic diversification and secure markets for its energy resources,and China aims to expand its economic and geopolitical influence. The summit provides a platform for addressing these mutual needs and forging strategic partnerships.

Islam and Confucianism: A Cultural Bridge

Beyond the economic and political dimensions, the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit carries a unique cultural significance. The majority populations of many ASEAN member states (like Indonesia and Malaysia) adhere to Islam, while Confucian values deeply influence Chinese society and are also prevalent to varying degrees in other Southeast Asian nations.

While seemingly different,both Islamic ethics and Confucianism emphasize:

Strong family values: Prioritizing familial responsibility and social harmony.
Respect for elders and authority: Emphasizing hierarchical structures and deference to experience.
Emphasis on education and self-betterment: Believing in the transformative power of knowledge and moral cultivation.
Ethical business practices: Promoting fairness,honesty,and social responsibility in commerce.

These shared values can facilitate smoother communication, build trust, and foster a stronger sense of shared identity among the participating nations. this cultural alignment can translate into more effective collaboration in areas such as education, cultural exchange programs, and even political dialogue.

Economic Synergies and Investment Opportunities

The summit creates a fertile ground for exploring diverse investment opportunities. A key area of focus is infrastructure development, with China’s expertise and financial resources complementing ASEAN’s infrastructure needs and the GCC’s investment capacity. The BRI provides a framework for many of these projects.Examples include:

High-speed rail networks: Connecting major cities within ASEAN and potentially linking them to China’s vast rail network.
Port development: Enhancing maritime connectivity and facilitating trade flows between Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
Renewable energy projects: Supporting ASEAN’s transition to a greener economy and diversifying the GCC’s energy mix.
Digital infrastructure: Expanding internet access and promoting e-commerce across the region.

Beyond infrastructure, there are also significant opportunities in:

Islamic finance: Expanding the reach of Sharia-compliant financial products and services in ASEAN and China.
Tourism: Promoting cultural and religious tourism between the three regions.
Technology: Fostering collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence, fintech, and biotechnology.

Case Study: Malaysia’s Digital Economy Push

Malaysia, a prominent ASEAN member with a significant Muslim population, provides a compelling case study.The nation is actively promoting its digital economy and aims to become a regional hub for digital innovation. collaboration with Chinese tech companies and GCC investment in Malaysian startups could accelerate this change. This serves as model for other ASEAN nations.

Navigating Geopolitical Considerations

The ASEAN-GCC-China Summit inevitably raises geopolitical considerations. The United States and other Western powers are closely watching the development of this trilateral relationship, concerned about its potential impact on the existing global order.

Some potential areas of friction include:

South China Sea disputes: China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea remain a source of tension with several ASEAN member states.
Human rights concerns: Concerns about China’s human rights record, particularly regarding the treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang, could strain relations with some GCC countries and Western allies.
Economic competition: Increased economic cooperation between ASEAN, the GCC, and China could challenge the dominance of Western economies in certain sectors.

However, it’s crucial to emphasize that ASEAN’s foreign policy is generally based on the principles of neutrality and non-interference. ASEAN aims to maintain good relations with all major powers and avoid being drawn into geopolitical rivalries.The GCC, similarly, pursues a diversified foreign policy and seeks to balance its relationships with different global actors.

Benefits and Practical Tips for Businesses

Businesses seeking to capitalize on the growing economic integration between ASEAN, the GCC, and China shoudl consider the following:

Conduct thorough market research: Understand the specific needs and preferences of consumers in each region.
Build strong relationships: Cultivate personal connections with potential partners and stakeholders.
adapt to local cultures: Respect local customs and traditions and tailor products and services accordingly.
Navigate regulatory frameworks: Understand the legal and regulatory requirements for doing business in each country.
embrace technology: Leverage digital tools and platforms to enhance efficiency and reach new customers.
Consider Sharia-compliant options: Explore opportunities in Islamic finance and halal industries.

For example, a tech company from China looking to expand into Southeast Asia might partner with a local distributor in Malaysia familiar with Islamic business etiquette and consumer preferences.Simultaneously, it could seek investment from a GCC sovereign wealth fund interested in backing digital innovation.

First-Hand Experiences: Building Bridges Through Trade

Many entrepreneurs and business leaders have already embarked on the journey of fostering trade relations between these regions. One such experience involves a Singaporean company specializing in halal food products aiming to penetrate the Chinese market. The company found success by:

Collaborating with local Muslim communities in China: To understand their specific needs and preferences regarding halal food.
Securing halal certification from recognized Islamic authorities: To ensure the credibility of their products.
Partnering with Chinese e-commerce platforms: To reach a wider consumer base.

This example illustrates the importance of cultural sensitivity, religious understanding, and strategic partnerships in navigating the complexities of doing business in this emerging economic landscape.

Challenges and Opportunities for the Future

while the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit holds immense promise, it’s crucial to acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. These include:

Political instability: Political unrest or conflicts in any of the participating countries could disrupt economic activity and undermine investor confidence.
Infrastructure gaps: Insufficient infrastructure in some ASEAN countries could hinder trade and investment flows.
Environmental concerns: Rapid economic growth could exacerbate environmental problems such as pollution and deforestation.
Cybersecurity threats: Increased reliance on digital technologies could expose businesses and governments to cyberattacks.

Though, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration. By working together to address these issues, ASEAN, the GCC, and China can create a more enduring and inclusive future for the region.

One way to mitigate political risk, as a notable example, could be developing robust insurance mechanisms and diversifying investment across multiple countries within ASEAN. Addressing infrastructure gaps requires strategic partnerships and innovative financing solutions. Green technology and sustainable development initiatives can mitigate environmental impact, fostering a more resilient economy.

Data and Statistics: Quantifying the Impact

The potential impact of the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit can be quantified through various economic indicators and statistics. Consider the following:

Indicator	Projected Change (Next 5 Years)	Significance
Intra-regional Trade Volume	Increase by 30%	boosts economic growth and job creation.
Foreign direct Investment (FDI)	Increase by 25%	Stimulates innovation and technology transfer.
Tourism Revenue	Increase by 40%	Enhances cultural exchange and understanding.
Renewable Energy Investment	Increase by 50%	Promotes sustainable development and reduces carbon emissions.

These projections suggest that the summit could have a transformative impact on the region’s economic landscape, fostering greater prosperity and interconnectedness.

When Islam meets Confucianism: Why the Asean-GCC-China Summit will redefine regional integration — Phar Kim Beng