(Opinion) ASEAN Connectivity: Challenge for an Integrated ASEAN Community
2017-01-12 09:22:09 source：RSIS
January 11, 2017
"Synopsis
It is crucial for the success of the ASEAN Community to strengthen and build its intra-regional connectivity. This will lead to more investments in business and industry towards a more inclusive region.
Commentary
THE ASEAN leaders adopted the new Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025 (MPAC 2025) in September 2016 to boost the development of the region’s infrastructure, logistics, innovation, and skilled labour mobility. The ASEAN connectivity agenda strives to integrate a region of over 600 million people with a total GDP of over US$2.3 trillion. The new master plan aims to strengthen regional development by addressing the trends that shaped the region such as the rising number of the consuming class, skills gap, and large infrastructure needs.
Realising a closer and more integrated Southeast Asian region still remains a challenge for ASEAN. Regional cohesiveness requires deeper linkages for a more competitive and resilient region. Addressing this challenge requires a closer look at ASEAN connectivity’s achievements and its shortfalls."
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