KUALA LUMPUR, August 21, 2025 – ASEAN Law Ministers convened in Kuala Lumpur on August 21, 2025, to sign a pivotal joint statement aimed at enhancing international commercial arbitration and mediation across the region. This agreement, titled the "Joint Statement by ASEAN Law Ministers on International Commercial Arbitration and Mediation Development," signifies a reinforced commitment to fostering justice, economic prosperity, and sustainable development through improved dispute resolution mechanisms.
Malaysia, as the ASEAN Chair for 2025, spearheaded this initiative, with Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Dato' Seri Azalina Othman Said leading the efforts. The statement outlines a three-pronged strategy: aligning regional economic progress with global benchmarks, leveraging technological innovation, and enhancing accessibility to justice. This approach aligns with Indonesia's Justice Minister Supratman Andi Agtas's focus on strengthening national legal frameworks, particularly in alternative dispute resolution, in accordance with UNCITRAL Model Law standards. Indonesia's current arbitration law, Law No. 30 of 1999, is being discussed for potential amendments to better align with international best practices, reflecting a broader regional trend towards modernization.
The signing ceremony took place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre during the ASEAN Law Forum 2025, held from August 19-21, 2025. The forum brought together ASEAN law ministers, the ASEAN Secretary-General, and the Timor-Leste and Japanese Law Ministers. Discussions covered critical issues such as international arbitration, online safety, cybercrime, and the integration of artificial intelligence into legal systems.
Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in his address, highlighted the serious consideration being given to establishing a dedicated Law Ministry to fortify Malaysia's legal infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of inclusivity and sustainability within the legal system, stating that the law must serve all people and generations, ensuring justice is a tangible reality. The joint statement and forum discussions collectively signal ASEAN's unwavering commitment to advancing legal cooperation and driving sustainable economic expansion throughout Southeast Asia. The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to international standards, including the Convention on the Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Arbitral Awards and the UNCITRAL Model Law, crucial for attracting investment and promoting trade. The adoption of AI in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms was also a key focus, with ministers supporting its use to enhance efficiency and impartiality, while stressing the need for responsible implementation and human oversight.