ASEAN solidarity is one of the main factors that contribute to regionalpeace, stability and prosperity, and Malaysia will not enjoy progress ifthe region itself is embroiled in conflicts, said Malaysian PrimeMinister Najib Razak in his message in conjunction with the 47th ASEANfounding anniversary.

"As one of the foundingmembers of ASEAN, Malaysia should be proud of the efforts and roleplayed by the country to ensure the success of the bloc,” he said,adding that ASEAN solidarity has succeeded in the bloc gaining the trustof the world community.

Najib said ASEAN has theobjective of creating a forward-looking community, playing a major rolein the development of regional issues, contributing to a community thatis responsible and free from conflicts and economically vibrant.

"All these will make ASEAN closer to the people and subsequently turnit into an organisation of caring and responsible society.”

Referring to the appointment of Malaysia as the ASEAN Chair in 2015,the Prime Minister said it is the responsibility of Kuala Lumpur to leadand guide efforts to strengthen the bloc in the post-2015 period, andit has chosen “People-Centered ASEAN” as the main theme.

About the slogan 'Moving Forward in Unity to a Peaceful and ProsperousCommunity' chosen by Myanmar as the ASEAN Chair this year, Nazib laudedit as the most appropriate.-VNA