ASEAN Mulls New Approach to Myanmar's 5PC Implementation

ASEAN is exploring a new strategy to bolster the implementation of its Five-Point Consensus (5PC) aimed at resolving the crisis in Myanmar. Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan indicated that despite some progress, Myanmar has not yet met the benchmarks set by ASEAN leaders through the 5PC, which remains the primary framework for peace.

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The 5PC will remain, but now ASEAN leaders want the Foreign Ministers to think about how we manage its implementation with Myanmar. If it needs slight modifications, it must be approved by ASEAN heads of state.

Hasan explained that ASEAN Foreign Ministers will engage informally with Myanmar to assess current developments and determine the next steps. "The 5PC will remain, but now ASEAN leaders want the Foreign Ministers to think about how we manage its implementation with Myanmar," he said. "If it needs slight modifications, it must be approved by ASEAN heads of state."

Malaysia also suggested extending Myanmar's six-month ceasefire, due to end in July, as a second phase towards more comprehensive peace efforts. The country further urged Myanmar to present a clear roadmap for its peace process, including inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders. "ASEAN does not want Myanmar to continue to be marginalized, as that situation could create a vacuum, allowing external powers to interfere and undermine conflict resolution efforts in the region," Hasan stated.

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ASEAN does not want Myanmar to continue to be marginalized, as that situation could create a vacuum, allowing external powers to interfere and undermine conflict resolution efforts in the region.

Malaysia intends to continue engaging with all stakeholders, including the Myanmar government, the National Unity Government (NUG), the People's Defence Force (PDF), and ethnic armed groups, to support ASEAN-led peace initiatives. "We do not want to leave a vacuum that is eventually filled by a third party with specific interests, further complicating the situation in Myanmar and ASEAN," he added.

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We do not want to leave a vacuum that is eventually filled by a third party with specific interests, further complicating the situation in Myanmar and ASEAN.