Beijing is hoping to use an expanded free trade deal to portray itself as the bloc’s alternative to the United States.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim may have put ASEAN under global spotlight through his diplomatic engagements with US President Donald Trump in a recent summit, but questions remain over whether more tangible outcomes could be achieved during Malaysia’s chairmanship term.

Three days of talks at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit in Kuala Lumpur wrapped up on Tuesday, once again underscoring the competition between the United States and China for influence in Southeast Asia.

President Donald Trump, during his trip to Asia, will participate in the 47th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia before making stops in Japan and South Korea.

The country’s admission caps off a 14-year journey toward accession, but also presents new challenges for the Southeast Asian bloc.

Hosted by the Republic of Korea under the theme “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: Connect. Innovate. Prosper.”

Roberto Lorato, CEO of MedcoEnergi, emphasizes the importance of strong regional cooperation to build the infrastructure and attract investment necessary for the ASEAN power grid. He also highlights MedcoEnergi's active role in renewable energy projects with its Southeast Asian counterparts.

With East Timor officially joining the other 10 ASEAN countries, the region further demonstrates its growing political ties and cooperation.