In a recent interview with the Viet Nam News Agency, Collins Chong Yew Keat, a foreign policy and security expert at the University of Malaya, stated that this is the Vietnamese top legislator’s trip to Malaysia in his current position, demonstrating Viet Nam’s priority to consolidate the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the country.
The timing of the visit is meaningful as both nations expand cooperation in trade, digital economy, and renewable energy investments while addressing global and regional uncertainties. The visit is expected to affirm the high level of political trust between the two countries and further institutionalise parliamentary cooperation channels.
Collins described parliamentary collaboration as a core pillar, creating a solid foundation for bilateral ties, adding it is a tool that guides relations at the grassroots level, reflecting the will of the people and mutual trust between the two societies. Enhancing parliamentary diplomacy not only helps legislators exchange experience in governance, legislation, and supervision but also strengthens political confidence and mutual understanding.
At the regional level, NA Chairman Man’s AIPA-46 attendance underscores Viet Nam's unwavering commitment to multilateralism and ASEAN's central role. The visit demonstrates strong support for Malaysia's ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 while highlighting the critical importance of parliamentary diplomacy in building sustainable bilateral and regional relationships.
He hailed Viet Nam’s outstanding role in the region’s priorities, noting expectations for the country to be a strong and constructive partner in parliamentary cooperation and ASEAN capacity-building. AIPA mechanisms, he said, create more space for amplifying collective voices, harmonising approaches, and outlining solutions to regional challenges, helping consolidate Viet Nam’s role in building ASEAN’s capacity, complementing the Government-led initiatives, and diversifying regional dialogues.
Regarding food security, Viet Nam, as a major agricultural exporter, has an important role to play in ensuring the supply chain and stabilising food for Malaysia and the region. Close coordination between the two countries can enhance resilience against climate and supply chain disruptions, contributing to food security maintenance and sustainable development, according to Collins.
Both nations have shown their interests in the development of solar, wind, and biomass energy, he said, adding Viet Nam's rapid renewable energy expansion provides practical lessons for Malaysia.
Viet Nam is seen as an emerging hub for green technology, digital economy, and energy transition, complementing ASEAN’s efforts, he underscored.
In regional stability and foreign policy, Viet Nam consistently supports the establishment of common legal frameworks, aligning with Malaysia's vision of a stable, united, and peaceful Southeast Asia. Both countries share concerns about cybersecurity, digital economic governance, and maritime security, creating conditions to promote long-term peace and prosperity.
Other potential areas for collaboration include education, digital transformation, development of supply chain and youth exchange. Parliamentary diplomacy, he noted, could help create an enabling environment for innovation, investment attraction, and stronger private sector collaboration amidst rapid technological and digital growth.
NA Chairman Man’s visit is not only a milestone in consolidating the Viet Nam – Malaysia relations but also an affirmation of Viet Nam’s proactive and constructive role in promoting cooperation, stability, and sustainable development within ASEAN.
