Malaysia’s Deputy PM Officiated ASEAN Unity Drive 2025

Jakarta: Malaysia Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi officiating the flag-off ceremony of the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 (AUD 2025) in Jakarta. This is being part of his official three-day visit to Indonesia from 20 to 22 April 2025.

“This historic initiative reflects Malaysia’s strong commitment to fostering regional integration, promoting sustainable mobility, and advancing innovation across Southeast Asia,” said Deputy Ahmad Zahid at the Malaysia’s Embassy Jakarta, Tuesday April 22, 2025.

“This initiative, organised by the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), an agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), and supported by our national carmaker Proton, the AUD 2025 marks the beginning of a remarkable 9,000-kilometre journey across nine ASEAN countries,” Deputy Ahmad Zaidi added.

“The convoy, led by the Proton e.MAS 7 -,our official electric vehicle for this drive,- symbolises Malaysia’s leadership in the shift towards clean and sustainable transportation,” he said.

The flag-off ceremony, held at the Embassy of Malaysia in Jakarta, brought together esteemed dignitaries including Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary General of ASEAN; Dato’ Syed Md Hasrin Tengku Hussin, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Republic of Indonesia; and Sarah Al Bakri Devadason, Permanent Representative of Malaysia to ASEAN.

Their presence reflects the shared regional spirit and the close diplomatic ties we continue to nurture, especially as Malaysia prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025.

“The ASEAN Unity Drive is more than a physical expedition it is a powerful statement of our collective ambition to integrate sustainability, innovation, and regional cooperation into the future of mobility,” quoted Ahmad Zahid.

As the convoy moves on to its next destination in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, it will continue engaging with stakeholders, governments, and communities across ASEAN, reinforcing people-to-people connections and strengthening our shared aspirations for inclusive development.

“I believe this initiative not only highlights Malaysia’s growing leadership in the electric vehicle and automotive innovation space, but also reflects our broader vision for a resilient, forward-looking ASEAN. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this journey will inspire across the region,” Deputy Ahmad Zahid added.