ASEAN Moves Towards Integrated Working Visa: Experts Weigh In

ASEAN Integration: A New Era of Economic and Workforce Mobility Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – June 3, 2025 – In a recent interview with Astro AWANI, Tan Sri Nazir Razak and Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, key figures in the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Malaysia, shared their perspectives on the future of ASEAN. The discussion focused on the concept of an integrated ASEAN working visa, designed to facilitate seamless movement of professionals across the region. "The ASEAN brand has evolved beyond national identities," stated Tan Sri Nazir Razak. "We're moving towards a unified identity, and a key component of that is the free flow of talent." This initiative aims to bolster economic growth and cooperation across Southeast Asia by removing barriers to employment. The potential benefits include increased competitiveness, innovation, and economic opportunities for all ASEAN member states. The speakers also touched on challenges, including harmonizing immigration policies and addressing potential concerns about national sovereignty. The successful implementation of this initiative will require collaboration among member states and a commitment to regional integration. The long-term vision is to create an ASEAN economy that is more dynamic, competitive, and interconnected. The implementation of such a program would require significant coordination and agreement among the diverse member states of ASEAN. However, the potential benefits in terms of economic growth and regional cooperation are substantial.