KUALA LUMPUR - The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) rejects external pressures that seek to disrupt the region, Malaysia's minister of investment, trade and industry said here on Monday.

In his closing remarks at China Conference: Southeast Asia 2025, Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz stressed ASEAN's neutrality and reaffirmed the right of its member states to develop on their own terms.

ALSO READ: ASEAN expecting neutrality in 'Trump 2.0'

Zafrul noted that the bloc must close ranks and prioritize its collective good over any member's ties to external powers or alternative groupings.

Emphasizing the importance of maintaining ASEAN consensus, uniting member nations and speaking with one voice, he said it is also important for ASEAN to actively engage with other economies.

READ MORE: China, ASEAN to hold 31st Senior Officials' Consultation

"Several ASEAN member states are warming up to BRICS, whether through membership or partnership. This is a development that all member states need to consider in crafting their policies," he said.