On Monday, leaders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) gathered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to begin a two-day summit focused on key regional and international issues. A primary topic is the recent imposition of US tariffs, which could significantly affect the export-driven economies of many ASEAN member states. In response, the summit will explore potential trade agreements with new partners to mitigate the impact of these tariffs and maintain economic growth in the region. In addition to trade, the summit will address the ongoing civil war in Myanmar, a member of ASEAN. Leaders are expected to discuss ways to develop a unified approach toward the conflict, which has resulted in humanitarian concerns and regional instability. The situation in Myanmar has been a recurring topic at recent ASEAN meetings, with the bloc seeking effective solutions to promote peace and stability. Another major agenda item is the advancement of a code of conduct for the South China Sea. The South China Sea is a strategically important and contested area, with overlapping territorial claims involving several ASEAN countries and China. Negotiations aim to establish guidelines to prevent conflicts and ensure freedom of navigation in the region. The ASEAN summit in Malaysia highlights the bloc’s efforts to address both economic and security challenges, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation in a changing global environment.